Thomas Partey, the former Arsenal midfielder, appeared in a London court on Tuesday, facing charges of raping two women during his time in the Premier League.
The Ghanaian international is charged with five counts related to the alleged rapes of the two women, along with a charge of sexual assault against a third woman, occurring between April 2021 and June 2022.
The 32-year-old player sat in the Westminster court wearing black clothing during a brief hearing, where he only confirmed his name, date of birth, and address.
Prosecutor Joslyn Ledward stated that two of the charges allege that Partey raped one complainant anally, which occurred during consensual sexual encounters on separate occasions.
The other three charges pertain to the second woman, whom Partey is accused of raping on three occasions, twice in Britain and once in Spain.
Partey was not required to enter a plea regarding any of the charges. He was released on bail and is set to appear again at the Old Bailey in London on September 2.
His lawyer previously stated that Partey denies the allegations and welcomes the opportunity to clear his name.
Partey joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid for €50 million (approximately $57.7 million) in 2020, becoming a key player for the English club, having played 52 matches across all competitions last season.
He was first arrested in July 2022. Although his name was not disclosed at the time, he continued to play for Arsenal during the investigations.
His contract with the English club ended last month.
British media reports indicate that Partey is nearing a move to Spanish club Villarreal on a free transfer. Judge Paul Goldspring noted during today’s hearing that the Ghanaian international will soon relocate to Spain.
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