Thomas Partey Denies Allegations in London Court

Villarreal's midfielder Thomas Partey faced a London court on Wednesday, pleading not guilty to rape and sexual assault charges involving three women. The 32-year-old Ghana international was accused of multiple offences dating back to his time at Premier League club Arsenal.

The allegations comprise five counts of rape involving two women and an additional charge of sexual assault against a third, occurring between April 2021 and June 2022. Partey, only confirming his identity during the hearing at Southwark Crown Court, was granted bail before his trial scheduled for November 2, 2026.

Initially signed by Arsenal from Atletico Madrid for 50 million euros in 2020, Partey became a first-team regular before his departure for Villarreal. His recent substitute appearance in a game against Tottenham Hotspur saw him receive boos from the Spurs fans whenever he touched the ball.

(With inputs from agencies.)