Thomas Partey Denies New Rape Allegations

Ex-Arsenal footballer Thomas Partey has denied two fresh allegations of rape. The 32-year-old midfielder appeared at Southwark Crown Court, where he pleaded not guilty to raping a woman in London in December 2020. Partey, who now plays for Villarreal, was previously charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, which allegedly occurred between 2021 and 2022. He had already entered not guilty pleas to these charges, with a trial initially set for November this year. The two new rape allegations, announced in February, will now be tried alongside the previous charges. Judge Tony Baumgartner ruled that all allegations would be tried together but warned that the trial may be delayed until January next year. In total, Partey has denied seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, relating to allegations made by four different women. During the hearing, Partey, dressed in dark grey trousers, a black jumper, and smart black shoes, confirmed his name and entered the not guilty pleas. He was granted bail with the condition that he must not contact the alleged victims. Partey, a key player for the Ghana national team, is expected to face England in the World Cup this summer. His case will be listed in court again on May 14 for a pre-trial hearing, with the exact trial date to be determined once the judge has been confirmed.