Thomas Partey to face court over rape charges ahead of Villarreal vs Spurs clash

Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey in London on Monday, September 15, on multiple rape charges, just a day before Villarreal’s Champions League opener against Tottenham Hotspur.

Partey, who left Arsenal in the summer to join Villarreal, faces five counts of rape involving two women.

Having denied all allegations, the 31-year-old was granted bail after an initial hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in August.

The Ghana international had been due to appear earlier this week, but the case was adjourned without public explanation.

His bail conditions allowed him to complete a move to Spain, where his transfer to Villarreal has been met with criticism from sections of the club’s supporters. He was 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 game in the UK since being indicted.

He is currently on international duty with Ghana and is expected to feature in Thursday’s World Cup qualifier against Chad.