Former Arsenal and Ghana international footballer Thomas Partey has been granted conditional bail after being formally charged with multiple sexual offences.
The 32-year-old appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, facing five counts of rape involving two women and one count of sexual assault against a third. The alleged incidents are said to have occurred between 2021 and 2022, during his time at the North London club.
Partey was charged just four days after his contract with Arsenal expired at the end of June. He is expected to appear next at the Old Bailey on 2 September.
During the court hearing, Partey—dressed in a black zip-neck jumper and black trousers, carrying a navy blazer—spoke only to confirm his name and acknowledge the bail conditions. These conditions include not contacting any of the alleged victims and notifying authorities of any changes to his permanent address or international travel plans.
The charges stem from an investigation launched in February 2022, after the Metropolitan Police received an initial report of rape.
Partey’s lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, stated that he “denies all the charges against him” and is “looking forward to the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
The footballer is reportedly preparing to join Spanish club Villarreal on a one-year deal, with an option to extend for a further 12 months.