Former Arsenal and Ghana international footballer Thomas Partey has been granted conditional bail after appearing in court to face multiple sexual offence charges.
The 32-year-old midfielder appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, where he was formally charged with five counts of rape involving two women and one count of sexual assault against a third woman. The alleged incidents are said to have occurred between 2021 and 2022 during his time at Arsenal.
Dressed in a black zip-up jumper and black trousers, and carrying a navy blazer, Partey stood in the dock with his arms behind his back. He confirmed his name and acknowledged that he understood the bail conditions set by the court.
His bail terms stipulate that he must have no contact with any of the three women involved in the case and must notify the police of any permanent changes to his address or plans for international travel.
Partey’s legal proceedings will continue at the Old Bailey, where he is due to appear on 2 September 2025.
The charges follow an investigation launched by the Metropolitan Police in February 2022 after a report of rape was filed. Since then, further allegations came to light, leading to the current set of six charges against him.
The case marks a significant development in the high-profile investigation that has attracted international media attention due to Partey’s status as a prominent footballer. A regular for Ghana’s national team and a key player for Arsenal during his tenure, Partey was a well-known figure in the Premier League until his contract with the north London club expired in June.
The midfielder left Arsenal officially on 30 June 2025, just four days before being charged. Before his departure, he had struggled with injury setbacks that limited his appearances for the club during the 2024/25 season.
Partey’s lawyer reacts
In response to the charges, Partey’s lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, stated earlier this week that the player “denies all the charges against him.” She added, “Mr Partey welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name. He has cooperated fully with the authorities from the outset of this investigation and looks forward to the legal process moving forward.”
The developments come as Partey is reportedly preparing for a move to Spanish side Villarreal. Sources close to the club have indicated that the player has agreed to a one-year deal, with the possibility of a 12-month extension depending on performance and availability.
However, the ongoing legal proceedings in the UK could complicate his ability to sign and register with a new club abroad, especially if travel restrictions remain in place as part of his bail conditions. Villarreal has yet to make an official comment on the matter, though discussions are understood to be ongoing between the club, the player’s representatives, and legal advisors.
The case has sparked reactions across the football world, reigniting debate around player conduct, club responsibilities, and the sport’s broader approach to handling serious off-field allegations. Advocacy groups have also weighed in, calling for continued support for victims of sexual assault and for institutions to uphold strong ethical standards, regardless of a player’s public profile.
As the case proceeds to the next stage in September, attention will focus on how the legal process unfolds and whether Partey will be able to resume his playing career during the investigation. For now, the midfielder remains out on bail, maintaining his innocence as he prepares for a long legal battle that could define the next chapter of his life on and off the pitch.
