Thomas Partey and Former Girlfriend
Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been released on conditional bail after appearing in court to face serious allegations of sexual violence.
The 32-year-old Ghanaian international has been charged with five counts of rape involving two women, and one count of sexual assault against a third. The alleged offences are said to have happened between 2021 and 2022, during his time as a player at Arsenal.
Partey appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, dressed in a black zip-up jumper, standing quietly in the dock with his arms behind his back. He gave his address as Potters Bar in Hertfordshire and showed no visible reaction as the charges — including accusations of anal rape — were read aloud. No plea was entered during the brief hearing.
The court granted Partey bail under strict conditions. He’s prohibited from contacting the women involved and must inform authorities about any permanent change of address or international travel. Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring noted, “I understand he’s no longer employed in this country and playing in Spain now,” referring to reports linking Partey with a move to Villarreal following his departure from Arsenal at the end of June.
His next court appearance is scheduled for September 2 at the Old Bailey, where the case will move forward.
Backlash from Supporters
Outside the courtroom, supporters’ groups voiced frustration over how the matter was handled by Arsenal. One prominent group, Arsenal Supporters Against Sexual Violence, has been protesting the club’s silence for more than a year.
“We never wanted this,” said Honor Barber, a member of the group.
“We wanted to support our club without being forced to ignore something this serious. We protested almost every home game last season because we believe the club has a responsibility to act.”
Members of the group held signs reading “Arsenal said: ‘We do the right thing’ then did nothing”, and called on the club to publicly release its sexual violence policies, suspend any player under investigation, and offer proper support to survivors.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed they first received a report of rape in February 2022.
Partey Maintains Innocence
Partey’s lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, said the footballer “denies all the charges” and is ready to fight the allegations in court.
“He welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name,” she added.
Partey joined Arsenal in 2020 in a £45 million move from Atlético Madrid. During his time at the North London club, he made over 100 appearances and was a key part of the midfield. He’s also played in over 50 matches for Ghana, including appearances in the World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations.
Arsenal, whose contract with Partey ended on June 30, issued a brief statement:
“Due to ongoing legal proceedings, the club is unable to comment.”