Former long-serving Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is facing a significant escalation in shocking new allegations that have been levelled against the 32-year-old, who now plays for Spanish club Villarreal.
It’s just been confirmed that the British Metropolitan Police has issued two fresh charges of rape against the 32-year-old Ghanaian international.
These new allegations involve a third victim and stem from an independent complaint regarding an incident reported to have occurred in 2020. This second case is being treated as a separate investigation from the initial charges that first came to light during his time in the Premier League.
Dark cloud hanging over Thomas Partey
These latest developments bring the total number of charges against the footballer to seven counts of rape and two counts of sexual assault.
Partey, who is currently out on bail, has already pleaded not guilty to the original set of charges involving two other victims.
He has been summoned to appear at a London court on Friday, March 13, 2026, to enter pleas for these additional counts. His legal team maintains his innocence, stating that the player denies all allegations and intends to clear his name in court.
The timing of these charges further complicates Partey’s career in Spain. Since joining Villarreal on a free transfer last summer, the midfielder has struggled to find consistent form on the pitch, with many observers noting the immense pressure of his high-profile legal situation.
While Villarreal has previously defended their decision to sign him by citing the presumption of innocence, the addition of new charges has reignited public debate and scrutiny over the club’s international reputation.
A full trial for the initial set of charges is currently scheduled to begin in November 2026.
One famed career now blighted by horrific allegations
Partey spent five seasons in England with Arsenal, joining in October 2020. During his time in North London, he made 167 appearances, establishing himself as a key defensive midfielder and winning the Community Shield in 2023.
On the international stage, Partey has been a cornerstone for the Ghanaian national team since his debut in 2016. He has earned over 50 caps, representing the Black Stars at three Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
His influence in Ghanaian football was underscored by his back-to-back Ghana Player of the Year awards in 2018 and 2019.