Former Arsenal player and Ghanaian international Thomas Partey has been granted ‘conditional bail’ after facing court on charges of rape and sexual assault.

Partey faces five charges after three women accused him of making unwanted sexual advances, with incidents reported between 2021 and 2022.

Two counts of rape involve one woman, three counts involve a second woman, and a single count of sexual assault involves a third woman. The 32-year-old denied the allegations.

The 32-year-old appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London on Tuesday where he denied the allegations. While he was not required to enter a plea, he did confirm that he understood the charges and the conditions of his bail. His case is now set to move to the Crown Court, with the next hearing scheduled for September 2 at the Old Bailey.

Partey was initially detained in July 2022, although his name was not disclosed then. Despite the ongoing investigation, he kept playing for Arsenal, recording 52 appearances in all competitions last season.

His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire of Hickman and Rose, stated, “Thomas Partey denies all the charges. He has cooperated fully with police and CPS during their three-year investigation and now looks forward to clearing his name.”

The Black Star signed with Arsenal in 2020 from Atlético Madrid. Partey was considered a promising midfield talent at the time. He made a total of 167 appearances across all competitions, scoring nine goals and providing around five assists

His contract ended on June 30, and he is now a free agent. Arsenal said: “The player’s contract ended on June 30. Due to ongoing legal proceedings, the club is unable to comment on the case.”

He is expected to join Villarreal, as the Spanish club has agreed to sign Partey as a free agent from Arsenal.