Thomas Partey To Face Tottenham In Champions League Before Court Appearance On Rape Charges

Villarreal midfielder Thomas Partey is expected to line up against Tottenham Hotspur in Tuesday’s Champions League fixture, less than 24 hours before he is due to appear in court on rape and sexual assault charges.

Naija News reports that Thomas Partey, 32, was formally charged in August with five counts of rape involving two women, along with one count of sexual assault against a third woman.

The alleged incidents are said to have taken place between 2021 and 2022, when the Ghana international was still playing for Arsenal. He has denied all allegations.

His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, said her client “welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”

The midfielder was released on conditional bail in August and signed for Villarreal just two days later. The Spanish side finished fifth in La Liga last season and are now preparing for their Champions League opener against Spurs, ironically, the bitter rivals of Partey’s former club Arsenal.

Villarreal head coach Marcelino insists his player is focused on the game despite the looming court case.

“I am totally convinced that he is mentally prepared and technically prepared to play tomorrow,” Marcelino told reporters ahead of the game.

“For sure he will be ready. We are very happy Thomas is with us for his football capacity, football ability and his presence as a human. He is a great player with a lot of experience. He has played for a lot of top clubs. We know he has a great level.”

Asked whether he had warned Partey about possible hostility from Tottenham fans, Marcelino brushed aside the off-field issues.

“We’re interpreting stuff about and talking about a player that could be totally innocent,” the Spaniard said.

“We’re playing a game of football tomorrow (Tuesday, September 16) where the important thing is football. This is where football was invented after all. Do you understand me? Thank you.”

Partey joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in 2020 and went on to play 167 games, scoring nine goals during his time in north London. Since his move to Villarreal, he has made four appearances this season, including one start.