Ex-Arsenal star Thomas Partey faces rape and assault charges involving three women, court documents reveal.
He’s out on conditional bail and cleared to join Villarreal while the case proceeds.
Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been granted conditional bail after being formally charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault involving three different women. The 32-year-old, who recently left Arsenal upon the expiration of his contract in June, is now cleared to move to Spain and sign for La Liga side Villarreal.
Partey appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, where the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) confirmed the charges. According to prosecutor Jocelyn Ledward KC, the rape allegations include two charges relating to one woman and three others involving another. The single count of sexual assault concerns a third woman and reportedly occurred at Partey’s Hertfordshire residence.
The offences are alleged to have taken place between 2021 and 2022, with the initial report filed in February 2022. The Metropolitan Police conducted a lengthy investigation over three years, culminating in the CPS issuing a postal requisition on July 4, 2025, summoning Partey to court.
At the hearing, the court was told that Partey allegedly raped one woman three times at his home and attacked another at a resort in Spain. The sexual assault allegation involves unwanted physical contact, including kissing and touching without consent.
The charges, which are indictable-only offenses, have been referred to the Crown Court, with Partey expected to appear again on September 2.
Despite the serious nature of the accusations, Partey was released on strict bail conditions. These include non-contact with any of the three complainants and mandatory notification to authorities regarding any permanent address changes or international travel.
His legal representative, Jenny Wiltshire, issued a statement saying, “Mr. Partey denies all charges and has cooperated fully with both the police and CPS. He welcomes the chance to clear his name.”
Meanwhile, as legal proceedings unfold, Partey is finalizing a move to Spanish side Villarreal. The transfer is being closely monitored due to the sensitive nature of the case.
Protesters were seen outside the courthouse during the proceedings, with one sign criticizing Arsenal’s handling of the allegations during Partey’s time at the club, accusing them of silence despite their stated values.
As the case heads to the Crown Court, public and legal scrutiny surrounding Partey’s next steps, both professionally and judicially, will likely intensify.
