Online Reporter
Thomas Partey will be allowed to move to Spain and join Villarreal, despite facing trial for five counts of rape involving two women.
The former Arsenal midfielder appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court yesterday. He’s also accused of sexually assaulting a third woman during his time with the Premier League club.
Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring ordered Partey to appear at the Old Bailey next month, but confirmed the 32-year-old Ghanaian international can continue with his plans to sign for Villarreal under his current bail terms.
Partey, who was five minutes late to the hearing, spoke only to confirm his name, address, and date of birth. Prosecutor Jocelyn Ledward KC said the charges relate to incidents between April 2021 and June 2022.
Six of the allegations involve anal rape. Two charges relate to the first alleged victim, one of which reportedly happened on at least four occasions between April and June 2021.
Police first interviewed Partey about these allegations in July 2022. He later attended a voluntary interview in November 2024 regarding a second alleged victim.
Three other rape charges stem from accusations made by that second woman. One involved an incident in December 2021 where, according to the prosecution, she refused sex and Partey proceeded anyway. A fifth rape charge relates to June 2022.
A third woman alleges Partey sexually assaulted her in February 2022 by lying on top of her, trying to kiss her, and touching her over her clothes without consent.
Despite the charges, Partey’s representatives have negotiated a deal for him to continue playing next season in Spain. Villarreal are expected to announce his signing soon — a one-year deal with an option for a further 12 months.
He’s already passed a medical and agreed to terms. Villarreal are due to face Arsenal in a friendly at the Emirates this week.
During yesterday’s hearing, Partey walked past a small group of protesters critical of Arsenal for continuing to play him during investigations.
Magistrate Goldspring acknowledged Partey’s career involves international travel. “I understand he’s no longer employed in this country and playing in Spain now,” he said. He ordered that Partey notify police of any permanent change of address three days in advance and report any international travel at least 24 hours before departure.
Partey stood in the dock wearing a black zip-up jumper, hands behind his back. He was granted conditional bail and is scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey on September 2.
The charges came four days after Partey officially left Arsenal at the end of June. The Metropolitan Police said the first report of rape was received in February 2022. Partey’s lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, said he denies all charges and is eager to clear his name. — Source: The Telegraph
