Thomas Partey granted conditional bail on multiple rape charges, set to join Villarreal

Abdullateef Fowewe


Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been granted conditional bail after appearing in court on serious sexual offense charges, including five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.

The charges, which Partey denies, involve allegations from three women relating to incidents that allegedly took place between 2021 and 2022.

The investigation by the Metropolitan Police began in February 2022 following an initial rape report.

Partey appeared before Westminster Magistrates’ Court, where he was not required to enter a plea but was granted bail under strict conditions.

These include notifying the police at least 24 hours in advance of any international travel and a prohibition on contacting the complainants directly or indirectly.

The 32-year-old Ghanaian player continued representing Arsenal through the investigation until his contract expired in June 2025.

Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, Partey is expected to join La Liga club Villarreal shortly, having completed a medical and poised to sign a two-year contract through 2027.

His free transfer to Villarreal comes after the end of his long tenure at Arsenal, where he had been a key player since transferring from Atletico Madrid in 2020.

Partey’s legal team maintains his innocence, emphasizing his cooperation with authorities throughout the three-year inquiry and his intention to clear his name.

Arsenal and relevant football authorities have remained largely silent on the matter due to the ongoing case, while the Metropolitan Police continue to prioritise support for the alleged victims and encourage anyone with information to come forward.

The case continues to develop with Partey’s next court appearance scheduled at the Old Bailey.