Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is set to appear at the Old Bailey in London on Monday, September 15, over multiple rape charges — just a day before Villarreal’s Champions League clash with Tottenham Hotspur.
The 31-year-old, who joined Villarreal from Arsenal during the summer, faces five counts of rape involving two women. He has denied all allegations.
Partey was granted bail after an initial hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in August. Although he had been scheduled to appear earlier this week, the case was adjourned without any public explanation.
His bail conditions permitted him to complete his move to Spain, but the transfer has drawn criticism from sections of Villarreal supporters. The midfielder was even jeered on his La Liga debut against Real Oviedo.
Charged just four days after leaving Arsenal, Partey’s return to London for Villarreal’s clash with Spurs will mark his first competitive game in the UK since the indictment.
Currently on international duty with Ghana, Partey is expected to feature in Thursday’s World Cup qualifier against Chad.
