Football Star Partey Granted Bail on Alleged Rape Charges
In a shocking turn of events, Thomas Partey, the former Arsenal midfielder, has been charged with five counts of rape against two women and one count of sexual assault against a third woman[1][2][3]. The alleged offenses are said to have occurred between 2021 and 2022, during his tenure with Arsenal.
Partey, who made 167 appearances for Arsenal, scoring nine times, and represented Ghana in 51 matches, appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court on August 5, 2025[1][3]. He was granted conditional bail under the condition that he does not contact any of the women involved and must notify the police of any permanent address changes or international travel plans[1][3].
Following the charges, Partey left Arsenal at the end of his contract in June 2025 and signed for Spanish club Villarreal in August 2025[2][3]. Villarreal has acknowledged the ongoing legal proceedings, emphasizing the presumption of innocence and expressing respect for legal processes while also condemning all forms of violence, including gender-based violence[2].
The Arsenal Supporters Against Sexual Violence (ASASV) have expressed their disappointment in the club's handling of the matter[1][3]. The group is calling for Arsenal to publish their sexual violence policies, suspend anyone under investigation for sexual offences, and properly support survivors[1][3].
Partey's next court appearance is scheduled for September 2, 2025, at the Old Bailey court[1][2]. His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, previously stated that Partey denies all the charges against him and welcomes the opportunity to clear his name[1][3].
The British police first received reports of an allegation of rape against Thomas Partey in February 2022[1][3]. Honor Barber, speaking outside court, stated that the ASASV had protested outside almost every home game last season due to the club's perceived silence on the issue[1][3]. The Arsenal spokesman, however, has remained silent on the case due to ongoing legal proceedings[1][3].
[1] BBC News: Thomas Partey charged with rape and sexual assault [2] Sky Sports: Thomas Partey signs for Villarreal after leaving Arsenal [3] The Guardian: Thomas Partey charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault
- Despite the shocking rape and sexual assault charges against Thomas Partey, which have cast a shadow over his football career, the Spanish club Villarreal has respected the legal process and highlighted the presumption of innocence.
- General news outlets, including the BBC, Sky Sports, and The Guardian, have covered the breaking news of Partey's legal troubles, both on and off the football field, raising concerns about sports figures and their conduct beyond the game.
- In the midst of the exciting transfer news of Thomas Partey's move to Villarreal, the lingering football story that still dominates the headlines remains the allegations of rape and sexual assault he faces, eliciting calls for action from groups like Arsenal Supporters Against Sexual Violence (ASASV).
