Villarreal midfielder Thomas Partey has been formally charged with two further counts of rape by the UK’s Crown Prosecution Service, marking a significant development in the ongoing legal proceedings involving the Ghana international.

The new allegations arise from an earlier complaint to police concerning offences allegedly dating back to 2020, predating the previously reported incidents, and involve a separate woman.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the latest accusations are being treated as “non-recent offences” following a fresh investigation. Partey is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on March 13, 2026, in connection with these new charges.

Previous Charges and Legal Timeline

Partey, 32, who now plays in Spain’s LaLiga with Villarreal, was already facing serious allegations. Last year, prosecutors charged him with five counts of rape involving two women and one count of sexual assault against a third woman. These incidents are said to have occurred while he was an Arsenal player between 2021 and 2022.

He pleaded not guilty to those earlier charges at Southwark Crown Court in September 2025, with a trial date set for November 2, 2026.

Partey remains on conditional bail, allowing him to continue his professional career provided he notifies police of any international travel and avoids contact with the complainants.

His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, stated:

“Thomas Partey continues to deny all charges against him. He has cooperated with the police throughout. Given there are ongoing legal proceedings, there will be no further comment.”

Background of Investigation

The first public legal developments emerged in July 2025, when the Metropolitan Police charged Partey with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault following a multi-year investigation that began in February 2022, after the first complaint was received.

The initial charges involve three women and are alleged to have taken place between 2021 and 2022 during his time in the Premier League with Arsenal. UK law limits the details that can be reported to protect the integrity of ongoing proceedings.

Partey appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in August 2025, where he was granted conditional bail with restrictions on contacting alleged victims and obligations to notify police of any moves or travel. A brief appearance at Southwark Crown Court in September 2025 confirmed his identity and not guilty pleas, with the trial scheduled for autumn 2026 due to court backlogs.

Professional and Public Response

The case has attracted widespread media attention and public discussion. Clubs and authorities have emphasized the importance of due process, while the handling of the allegations has also been subject to scrutiny.

During the investigation, Partey continued to play for Arsenal, though one of the alleged victims later reported receiving online abuse connected to his appearances on the pitch.

After his Arsenal contract expired at the end of the 2024/25 season, Partey signed with Villarreal. The Spanish club issued a statement underlining its respect for the legal process and the presumption of innocence.

Partey continues to represent Ghana internationally, remaining part of the national squad ahead of the World Cup despite the ongoing legal proceedings.

What Happens Next

The newly authorised charges will be addressed separately, beginning with the March hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. The original case remains on course for its November 2026 trial.

Under UK criminal law, all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.