Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey has pleaded not guilty to five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, with his trial scheduled to begin on November 2, 2026.
According to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in the UK, the former Arsenal star faces two counts of rape involving one woman and three counts involving another, while the sexual assault charge concerns a third woman.
The alleged offences are said to have occurred between 2021 and 2022. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the first report was received in February 2022.
Partey, 32, entered his plea at Southwark Crown Court on Wednesday, September 16. He appeared in court wearing black trousers, a black quarter-zip jumper, and a blue jacket. His lawyer reiterated that the midfielder “denies all the charges against him” and “welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
The hearing came less than 24 hours after Partey featured for Spanish side Villarreal in their UEFA Champions League clash against Tottenham Hotspur, where he was jeered by Spurs fans throughout the game. Villarreal lost the match 1-0.
Partey was formally charged shortly after leaving Arsenal at the end of his contract in June this year. He had earlier appeared before Westminster Magistrates’ Court, where he was granted bail under strict conditions, including being barred from contacting the women involved in the case.
The Ghana international joined Villarreal on August 7, 2025 — a move that sparked protests from sections of the club’s supporters. His plea hearing had initially been scheduled for September 2 at the Old Bailey but was adjourned without explanation, leading to his latest court appearance.
