Ghana’s Thomas Partey pleads not guilty to additional rape counts

Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey appeared at Southwark Crown Court on Monday, where he formally denied two additional counts of rape, further expanding a complex case already before the British courts.

The 32-year-old Villarreal man arrived at the venue in a people carrier, dressed in black, and avoided engaging with reporters as he entered the building.

His latest court appearance came just a day after he was left out of the matchday squad for Villarreal CF’s La Liga meeting with Athletic Club, a development that has drawn attention amid ongoing legal proceedings.

Charges expanded ahead of trial

The new counts will be heard alongside five existing charges of rape and one count of sexual assault, all of which Partey has previously denied.

The earlier charges were first addressed in September 2025, when he entered not guilty pleas involving three complainants.

In February 2026, prosecutors added two further rape allegations connected to a separate complainant, significantly widening the scope of the case.

With all charges now consolidated, proceedings at Southwark Crown Court are expected to be lengthy, and the trial date, originally set for November, is increasingly likely to be pushed into early 2027 due to procedural developments.

Bail conditions and court restrictions

At Westminster Magistrates’ Court on March 13, deputy chief magistrate Tan Ikram reaffirmed strict bail terms already imposed on the player.

These conditions include a prohibition on any direct or indirect contact with the latest complainant. Partey is also required to notify authorities of any changes to his address or international travel plans, with compliance closely monitored as the case progresses.

Defence position

Following the latest hearing, Partey’s legal team maintained his consistent stance of denial while stressing his cooperation with investigators.

His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, said: “Thomas Partey continues to deny all charges against him. He has cooperated fully with the police throughout. Given that legal proceedings are ongoing, there will be no further comment.”

The defence has repeatedly declined to provide further public statements, citing the active nature of the case.

Football career under scrutiny

Thomas Partey joined Villarreal CF as a free agent in August 2025 after his contract with Arsenal FC expired. His move to Spain came just days after his initial charging in July 2025, following his departure from the Premier League side where he made 167 appearances.

Signed for €50 million from Atletico Madrid in 2020, Partey went on to become a key figure in Arsenal’s midfield. He has also been a regular for the Ghana national team, earning 53 caps and featuring at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Despite the legal uncertainty, he has remained involved on the pitch, making 26 appearances for Villarreal this season and starting 12 matches.

Villarreal CF are next scheduled to face Real Oviedo on April 23 away from home, as the club continues its domestic campaign while one of its senior players remains engaged in ongoing court proceedings.