Update: Thomas Partey granted bail after rape charges

Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been granted conditional bail after appearing in a London court over six serious charges five counts of rape and one of sexual assault, tied to alleged incidents involving three different women.

The 32-year-old Ghanaian star walked into Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, dressed in a black zip-up jumper, holding a navy blazer. In the dock, he stood quietly, arms behind his back, as the charges were read out.

According to court documents, the alleged attacks happened between 2021 and 2022 — during Partey’s time at Arsenal, where he played top-flight football in the Premier League.

The case follows a long-running police investigation that began in February 2022, when officers first received a rape report involving the footballer.

Partey was charged on July 4, just four days after Arsenal confirmed his exit from the club following the expiration of his contract at the end of June.

While the football world remains stunned, Partey’s legal team insists he’s innocent.

“Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him,” his lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, said. “He has cooperated with investigators from the start and welcomes the chance to clear his name.”