Former Arsenal and Ghanaian international Thomas Partey has been granted conditional bail following his appearance at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London on Tuesday, where he faces multiple charges of sexual offences.
Partey, 32, is charged with five counts of rape involving two women and one count of sexual assault involving a third woman. The alleged incidents are reported to have taken place between 2021 and 2022, during his tenure at Arsenal Football Club.
The midfielder, who recently departed Arsenal after his contract expired in June 2025, stood in the dock wearing a black zip-neck jumper, showing no visible emotion as the charges were read. He was not required to enter a plea during Tuesday’s proceedings.
His legal counsel, Jenny Wiltshire, stated earlier that Partey “denies all the charges against him” and “welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
Under the bail conditions, Partey is prohibited from contacting the three alleged victims and must inform authorities of any permanent address changes or plans to travel internationally. Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring noted in court that Partey is no longer employed in the UK and is reportedly playing in Spain, amid reports linking him to La Liga side Villarreal.
The case has drawn criticism from supporters’ groups. Outside court, Arsenal Supporters Against Sexual Violence expressed dismay over the club’s previous handling of the matter. Speaking on behalf of the group, Honor Barber said they had protested outside most home games last season in an effort to hold the club accountable.
“We never wanted to be in a situation where the club that we love and believe in allowed a player facing such serious allegations to continue playing,” Barber said. She called for the publication of the club’s sexual violence policy, the suspension of any players under investigation, and better support for survivors.
The UK’s Metropolitan Police confirmed that they first received a report regarding an alleged rape in February 2022.
Partey joined Arsenal in October 2020 from Atlético Madrid for a reported £45 million. During his time with the Gunners, he made 167 appearances, scoring nine goals. He also earned 51 caps for the Ghanaian national team.
Partey is expected to appear before the Central Criminal Court (Old Bailey) on September 2.
An Arsenal spokesperson has declined to comment, citing the ongoing legal proceedings.
