Former long-serving Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey, who currently plays for Spanish club Villarreal, is facing a significant escalation in serious allegations. The British Metropolitan Police have confirmed the issuance of two fresh charges of rape against the 32-year-old Ghanaian international, marking a troubling development in his ongoing legal battle.

These newly confirmed 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 tenure in the Premier League. With these latest developments, the total number of charges against the footballer now stands at seven counts of rape and two counts of sexual assault, encompassing alleged offences between 2021 and 2022 and the new 2020 incident.

Partey, who is currently out on bail, has already pleaded not guilty to the original set of charges, which involved two other victims. He has been summoned to appear at a London court on Friday, March 13, 2026, specifically at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, to enter pleas for these additional counts. His legal team steadfastly maintains his innocence, asserting that the player denies all allegations and intends to clear his name in court.

The timing and nature of these new charges further complicate Partey’s career in Spain. Since joining Villarreal on a free transfer last summer, the midfielder has reportedly struggled to find consistent form on the pitch, with many observers attributing this to 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 these 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 commence in November 2026.

Partey spent five seasons in England with Arsenal, having joined the club in October 2020. During his time in North London, he made 167 appearances, establishing himself as a key defensive midfielder and notably winning the Community Shield in 2023. He was charged with the initial offences four days after leaving Arsenal, following the expiration of his contract at the end of June.

Despite the severe legal challenges, Partey’s bail conditions do not prevent him from playing football; however, he must notify police of any international travel 24 hours in advance and is prohibited from contacting the complainants. He remains a key player in the Ghana international team, which is set to face England at the World Cup group stages in the United States on June 23.