Former Arsenal star Thomas Partey has been given the green light to move to Spain and join Villarreal CF, despite facing legal issues in the UK.
The midfielder appeared in court this morning to answer to multiple charges, but was granted conditional bail.
This means his transfer to the Spanish side can proceed as planned, which many fans consider a positive development.
Partey, who left Arsenal in June after his contract expired, now faces five counts of rape and one of sexual assault.
He appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, where he confirmed his name, age, and current address.
Despite the seriousness of the allegations, the court did not restrict his movement outside the UK.
The charges stem from incidents alleged to have occurred between 2021 and 2022.
The Metropolitan Police said it received the first report in early 2022.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) spent three years investigating before deciding to press charges.
“He’s charged with six sexual offences, five of rape, one of sexual assault,” stated prosecutor Jocelyn Ledward, KC.
The court heard claims involving three women.
One woman accuses him of three rapes at his home in Hertfordshire.
Another alleges he attacked her at a resort in Spain.
A third claims he touched her without consent during a visit to his residence.
“She tried to push him off and after a couple of minutes he stopped,” said Ledward, describing the third allegation.
Despite the legal process, Thomas Partey’s Villarreal move has not been blocked.
He must, however, meet certain bail conditions.
These include no contact with the alleged victims and notifying police of any major travel or address changes.
The CPS confirmed the charges followed “a careful review of a comprehensive file of evidence.”
Meanwhile, Partey’s legal team insists he is innocent and fully cooperative.
“Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him,” said his lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire. “He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
His team also noted that he participated in three voluntary interviews and never failed to respond to requests.
His first Crown Court appearance is scheduled for September 2, 2025.
Until then, he is free to continue his football career in Spain.
As he arrived in court, a small group of protesters displayed signs calling out Arsenal’s handling of the situation. One sign read: “Arsenal said: ‘We do the right thing’. Then did nothing.”
Nevertheless, many fans are focused on the fact that he can now play again.
This transfer to Villarreal is seen as a chance for Partey to get back on the pitch and stay focused.
