Thomas Partey Denies New Rape Allegations

Ex-Arsenal footballer Thomas Partey has denied two fresh allegations of rape. The 32-year-old midfielder appeared in Southwark Crown Court on Monday, entering not guilty pleas for allegedly raping a woman in London in December 2020. Partey, who now plays for Villarreal, had previously been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, dating back to 2021 and 2022, to which he also pleaded not guilty. A trial for these charges was initially set for November this year. Following the introduction of two new rape charges in February, Judge Tony Baumgartner has decided that all allegations will be tried together, potentially delaying the trial until January next year. In total, Partey has now pleaded not guilty to seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, pertaining to allegations from 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 had been absent from the previous court hearing but his lawyer had indicated that not guilty pleas would be entered. Partey, a key player for the Ghana national side, is expected to face England in the World Cup this summer. He is currently on bail with the condition that he does not contact the alleged victims. The case is set for a pre-trial hearing on May 14, with the trial date to be confirmed once the judge has been assigned.