Thomas Partey Denies Latest Rape Allegations

Ex-Arsenal footballer Thomas Partey has denied two fresh allegations of rape. The 32-year-old appeared in court on Monday to plead not guilty to twice 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 date back to 2021 and 2022. He had already pleaded not guilty to these charges, with a trial initially set for November this year. The two new rape allegations were announced in February, and the judge has agreed to try all the allegations together. However, the trial may now be delayed until January next year. In total, Partey has pleaded not guilty to seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, relating to allegations from four women. During the hearing, Partey confirmed his name and entered the not guilty pleas. He was granted bail with the condition that he does not contact the alleged victims. Partey is expected to play for Ghana in the World Cup this summer. The case is due to be listed in court again on May 14 for a pre-trial hearing, with a decision on the exact trial date to be made once the judge is confirmed.