Former Arsenal and Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has been charged with two additional counts of rape, according to the UK’s Crown Prosecution Service.
The 32-year-old, who currently plays for Spanish club Villarreal, is already scheduled to stand trial in November after previously pleading not guilty to five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault relating to allegations from three women.
In a statement, the CPS said the new charges stem from a separate report of non-recent offences, following a fresh investigation by the Metropolitan Police. Partey is set to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on March 13 in connection with the latest allegations.
The earlier alleged incidents are said to have taken place between 2021 and 2022, during Partey’s time at Arsenal. He was first charged shortly after his contract with the north London club expired last year.
Partey remains on bail and is permitted to continue playing professional football. His bail conditions require him to notify police at least 24 hours in advance of any international travel and prohibit contact with the complainants.
The Ghana international remains an active member of the Black Stars squad, which is scheduled to face England in the World Cup group stage in the United States. Legal proceedings against Partey in the UK remain ongoing.
