Esther Salifu
Thomas Partey, 32, has been granted conditional bail after appearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, facing five counts of rape involving two women and one count of sexual assault against a third woman.
The alleged offences occurred between 2021 and 2022, during his tenure at Arsenal. Partey, whose contract with the club expired in June, denies all charges .
The bail conditions stipulate that Partey must not contact any of the three complainants and must notify police of any permanent changes of address or international travel.
During the brief court appearance, Partey stood in the dock wearing a black zip-neck jumper, confirming his identity but not entering a plea.
Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring acknowledged that Partey is no longer employed in the UK, noting, “I understand he’s no longer employed in this country and playing in Spain now.”
Partey’s lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, stated, “Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him. He has fully cooperated with the police and CPS throughout their three-year investigation. He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
The charges pertain to incidents that allegedly took place between 2021 and 2022, including at his former £6 million London home and a hotel in Marbella, Spain.
Partey joined Arsenal from Atlético Madrid in 2020 for £45 million and made 52 appearances for the club last season. His contract expired at the end of June, and reports suggest he is set to join Spanish club Villarreal.
The Metropolitan Police first received reports of an allegation of rape in February 2022, leading to an extensive investigation.
Partey is due to appear at the Old Bailey on September 2.
