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, pleading 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, dating back to 2021 and 2022, to which he also pleaded not guilty. A trial was initially set for November this year, but with the addition of two new rape charges, the trial may now be delayed until January next year. In total, Partey has denied seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, relating to allegations from four women. During the hearing, Partey, dressed in dark grey trousers and a black jumper, 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's case is set to be heard again on May 14 for a pre-trial hearing, with a decision on the exact trial date to be made once the judge has been confirmed. The Ghanaian midfielder is expected to play for his national team in the World Cup this summer.