Ghanaian footballer Thomas Partey, once a prominent figure at Arsenal and now with Spain’s Villarreal, has pleaded not guilty to five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault at Southwark Crown Court in London, according to multiple reports including BBC and People Daily Digital. The high-profile case, which has been under investigation since early 2022, centers on alleged incidents involving three women during Partey’s tenure at the north London club.
The 32-year-old midfielder appeared before the court on September 17, 2025, where he formally denied all charges. The alleged offences reportedly took place between 2021 and 2022, a period when Partey was a regular starter for Arsenal in the Premier League. The charges were brought just four days after his contract with Arsenal expired at the end of June 2025, marking a dramatic turn in the footballer’s career trajectory.
During the hearing, Partey, dressed in a black zip-neck jumper and navy blazer, quietly confirmed his name, date of birth, and not guilty pleas. Observers noted his composed demeanor as he stood in the dock with his arms behind his back, a stark contrast to the media storm swirling around the case. Details of the alleged incidents remain tightly restricted under UK reporting laws for sexual offences, a measure designed to protect the identities of the complainants and ensure a fair trial.
According to reports from 101 Great Goals and People Daily Digital, the investigation into Partey began in February 2022 when police first received a report of rape. The process has been protracted, with detectives conducting a detailed inquiry before formal charges were brought in July 2025. The alleged offences involve two women who accuse Partey of rape and a third woman alleging sexual assault. The specifics of the incidents, including locations and circumstances, have not been disclosed to the public in compliance with legal restrictions.
Partey’s legal team has been vocal about his intention to vigorously contest the allegations. His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, was quoted as saying, “He denies all the charges against him,” and further emphasized that Partey “welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.” The midfielder’s representatives have expressed confidence in their ability to defend his innocence, underscoring their belief that the forthcoming trial will provide clarity and vindication.
The case is now set to proceed to trial, with proceedings scheduled to begin on November 2, 2026, at Southwark Crown Court. Legal experts anticipate the trial could last between six and eight weeks, given the number of charges and the complexity of evidence expected to be presented. Should Partey be convicted, he faces the prospect of a lengthy prison sentence—a reality that underscores the gravity of the situation for both the player and the alleged victims.
In the meantime, Partey has been granted conditional bail. The terms of his release are stringent: he is prohibited from contacting any of the three women involved in the case and must notify police of any permanent changes of address or plans for international travel at least 24 hours in advance. These conditions aim to ensure the integrity of the legal process and the safety of all parties while the case moves toward trial.
Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, Partey’s football career has not come to a complete halt. After leaving Arsenal at the end of June 2025, he reportedly agreed to join Spanish side Villarreal on a one-year contract, with the possibility of a 12-month extension. His move to La Liga has not been without controversy, given the serious nature of the charges he faces in the UK.
Remarkably, Partey was back in London in September 2025—not for a court appearance, but to participate in a Champions League fixture. Villarreal faced Tottenham Hotspur in what turned out to be a tightly contested match, with Partey coming off the bench in a game that ended in a 1-0 defeat for the Spanish club. His bail conditions allow him to continue his professional commitments, provided he keeps authorities informed of his movements. This arrangement, while legal, has sparked debate among fans and commentators about the balance between the presumption of innocence and the responsibilities of high-profile athletes facing serious allegations.
The football world has been watching closely as the case unfolds. Partey’s departure from Arsenal, timed so closely to the filing of charges, has fueled speculation and scrutiny. Club officials have declined to comment on the specifics of the case, citing the ongoing legal process and the importance of upholding the rights of all parties involved. Meanwhile, Villarreal has stated that they will monitor the situation and cooperate fully with any legal requirements, but have not taken disciplinary action against the player pending the outcome of the trial.
The broader public reaction has been mixed. Some supporters have rallied behind Partey, pointing to his consistent denials and the principle of innocent until proven guilty. Others, however, have called for clubs and governing bodies to take a firmer stance on players accused of serious crimes, arguing that the sport must prioritize the safety and dignity of all individuals, both on and off the pitch.
Legal analysts note that the case will likely become a landmark in the intersection of sports, celebrity, and criminal justice in the UK. The high profile of the accused, coupled with the sensitive nature of the allegations, means that proceedings will be closely scrutinized not only by the football community but also by advocates for survivors of sexual violence and those concerned with due process.
As the November 2026 trial date approaches, all eyes will remain on Southwark Crown Court. The outcome will have far-reaching implications—not just for Thomas Partey and the women involved, but for the broader conversation about accountability, justice, and the role of public figures in society. For now, the footballer continues to train and compete, his future both on and off the field hanging in the balance as the legal process runs its course.
With the trial still more than a year away, the story of Thomas Partey’s legal battle is far from over, promising to remain a focal point for discussions about justice, football, and public trust in the months ahead.