Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been granted conditional bail after appearing in court on charges relating to multiple sexual offences.
The 32-year-old footballer attended Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, where he faced five counts of rape involving two women, as well as one count of sexual assault against a third.
The alleged incidents are said to have taken place between 2021 and 2022, during Partey's time at the north London club.
Partey was formally charged just four days after leaving Arsenal, following the expiration of his contract at the end of June.
Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been granted conditional bail after appearing in court on charges relating to multiple sexual offences
|PA
Arriving at court wearing a black zip-up jumper and carrying a navy blazer, Partey stood in the dock with his hands behind his back as proceedings began.
The charges stem from an investigation launched by Metropolitan Police detectives in February 2022, after they received an initial report of rape.
Partey’s legal representative, Jenny Wiltshire, previously issued a statement on his behalf, saying: “He denies all the charges against him and looks forward to the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
The charges were brought against Partey just four days after he'd left Arsenal following the expiry of his contract.
Thomas Partey's lawyer says the former Arsenal midfielder is looking forward to 'finally clearing his name' amid rape and sexual assault charges
|PA
The Metropolitan Police previously confirmed it first received a report of rape in February 2022, which later formed part of the investigation leading to the current case.
The case will continue in the coming months, as Partey navigates the legal process following his recent departure from the Premier League.
Since leaving Arsenal, where he made 147 appearances during his time at the Emirates Stadium, the Ghana international has been linked with a move back to Spain with Villarreal.
He has reportedly been offered a two-year contract by the club, who secured Champions League football by finishing fifth last term behind Athletic Bilbao, Atletico Madrid, Real Madrid and champions Barcelona.
Thomas Partey has been linked with a move back to Spain with Villarreal
|PA
Partey scored nine goals for Arsenal during his time at the club.
His only trophy with the Gunners was the Community Shield in 2023, with Arsenal beating Manchester City on penalties to secure the trophy.