Thomas Partey
Image credit: Getty Images
Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey’s scheduled appearance at the Old Bailey was unexpectedly adjourned on Tuesday, with no explanation given for the delay, according toDaily Mail reports.
The 32-year-old Ghanaian international, who recently joined Villarreal, is facing five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault relating to allegations from three women between 2021 and 2022. The case will now continue on September 17 at Southwark Crown Court.
The charges, brought by the Metropolitan Police on July 4, 2025, just days after Partey’s Arsenal contract expired, stem from incidents alleged to have occurred during his time in North London. They include two counts of rape involving one complainant, three involving another, and a sexual assault charge relating to a third.
READ MORE: Andrea Berta working on two key deals after transfer window closes
Partey, who first appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5, was released on conditional bail. He has been barred from contacting the complainants and must inform police of any international travel or change of address. He has consistently denied all allegations.
His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, said: “Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him. He has fully cooperated with the police and CPS throughout their three-year investigation and now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
Thomas Partey
Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey (Image credit: Getty Images)
The unexplained adjournment has added further uncertainty to a case that has attracted significant public scrutiny. Villarreal’s decision to sign Partey in early August drew criticism, with hundreds of supporters signing a petition describing it as the “darkest day in the club’s history.”
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
The midfielder was booed during his debut against Oviedo, although Villarreal president Fernando Roig defended the move, citing the presumption of innocence: “We must be cautious and wait for justice. Thomas has the right to do his job until there is a conviction.”
Partey, who joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in 2020 for £45 million and made 167 appearances for the Gunners, continues to play for both club and country. He is set to feature for Ghana in World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Mali this week before Villarreal’s Champions League clash with Tottenham on September 16, just one day before his next court appearance.
The Crown Prosecution Service and Metropolitan Police have urged responsible reporting to avoid prejudicing the proceedings, while also stressing ongoing support for the complainants.
NEXT ARTICLE: Arsenal shockingly receive only €300k from deadline-day sale of first-team player