Former Arsenal and current Villarreal midfielder Thomas Partey has pleaded not guilty to multiple counts of rape and sexual assault in a case that has sent shockwaves through the football community.
Court Appearance
The 32-year-old Ghana international appeared at Southwark Crown Court, London, on Wednesday where he was formally charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.
The offences are alleged to have occurred between 2021 and 2022, during Partey’s time as an Arsenal player. He entered a plea of not guilty to all charges.
Judge Christopher Hehir granted him conditional bail, restricting any direct or indirect contact with the three women involved. He must also inform police of any permanent change of address and seek approval for any travel outside the UK.
Trial Date
A full trial has been scheduled for November 2, 2026 at Southwark Crown Court. The lengthy delay reflects the heavy backlog in the Crown Court system.
Until then, Partey remains on bail under strict conditions.
Football Career
Partey, who joined Arsenal in 2020 from Atlético Madrid for £45 million, played 167 matches and scored nine goals for the North London club. He became a central figure in Arsenal’s midfield during his four-year stay.
In June 2025, following the expiration of his contract, he signed for Spanish side Villarreal. He has also been a mainstay for the Ghanaian national team, making over 50 appearances since his debut in 2016.
The charges have now cast a cloud over his new chapter in La Liga. Neither Arsenal nor Villarreal have issued detailed comments, citing the ongoing judicial process.
Wider Context
The case has stirred debate within both football and legal circles. While Partey maintains his innocence, the allegations highlight once again how professional athletes face increasing scrutiny over conduct off the field.
Observers note that regardless of the trial’s outcome, the proceedings could significantly impact Partey’s reputation, endorsement opportunities, and career trajectory.
The UK’s Crown Prosecution Service and the court system have reiterated that the defendant is entitled to a fair trial and that all parties must avoid prejudicing judicial proceedings.
What’s Next?
With the trial still more than a year away, questions remain over how Villarreal will handle Partey’s role in the team during the interim. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely as the midfielder balances his professional career with a looming court battle that could define his legacy.
For now, Partey remains free on bail, his football future uncertain, and his case set to dominate both sporting and legal headlines for months to come.
