By: Kwame Bediako
Ghanaian international footballer, Thomas Partey has been granted conditional bail after appearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, facing five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.
The alleged offences reportedly took place between 2021 and 2022 while he was playing for Arsenal in the English Premier League.
Partey’s bail conditions prohibit him from contacting any of the three women who have made allegations against him. He must also inform the police in case of any permanent changes to his address or if he plans to travel internationally.
The next court hearing for Partey is scheduled for September 2 at the Old Bailey in London. During the hearing, Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring acknowledged that Partey had relocated to Spain, saying, “I understand he’s no longer employed in this country and playing in Spain now.” Partey responded with a simple “Thank you.”
Reports have emerged that Partey is set to join Spanish La Liga club Villarreal. Sources say the midfielder completed a medical over the weekend and is expected to sign a two-year deal. The move is believed to be motivated by his desire to continue playing at the highest level, including Champions League football.
Villarreal is scheduled to face Arsenal in a pre-season friendly at the Emirates Stadium, potentially marking an early return for Partey against his former club. Partey was a vital player for Arsenal during the 2024/25 season, making 52 appearances across all competitions.
He joined Arsenal in 2020 from Atlético Madrid and had prior playing spells at Mallorca and Almería. Reports indicate that he also received offers from clubs in Saudi Arabia and Turkey before deciding on Villarreal.
Arsenal has refrained from commenting on the matter due to the ongoing legal proceedings. Partey’s lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, reiterated that her client denies all charges.
She stated, “Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him.” The case remains ongoing, with the football community closely watching for developments as the legal process continues.
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