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 to plead not guilty to 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 in July last year, which he also denied. A trial was initially set for November, but with the introduction of two new rape charges in February, the judge has decided to try all allegations together, potentially delaying the trial until January next year. Partey has now pleaded not guilty to a total of seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, related to allegations from four women. During the hearing, Partey confirmed his name and entered the not guilty pleas while dressed in dark grey trousers, a black jumper, and smart black shoes. 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 set for a pre-trial hearing on May 14, with a decision on the exact trial date to be made after the judge has been confirmed.