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Thomas Partey, vice-captain of the Ghana national team and midfielder for Villarreal, is facing serious legal troubles. He is due to stand trial in the United Kingdom on seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, and he pleads not guilty to all allegations.
FIFA projects this World Cup to become the most-watched sporting event in history. Hosted across three nations, it will draw massive global television audiences. For most players, the World Cup represents the pinnacle of their careers. For Partey, however, it means stepping onto the highest-profile stage since his criminal proceedings began.
The 32-year-old midfielder was originally scheduled to go on trial last November, yet the hearing has been postponed until early 2027. He left Arsenal when his contract expired in July 2025. Just four days later, he was charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault relating to three women, with the alleged offences taking place between 2021 and 2022. In February 2026, two further rape charges were added concerning a fourth woman, dating back to 2020. He entered a not guilty plea in April and was granted conditional bail at London’s Southwark Crown Court, requiring him to report to police 24 hours before undertaking any international travel.
Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has defended his decision to call up Partey. “As far as I know, the presumption of innocence applies to all cases in England, Portugal and anywhere else in the world until a court delivers its verdict. Unfortunately, social media and some media outlets now act with impunity, condemning people before they get a chance to defend themselves.”
Partey was booed by home fans every time he touched the ball during Ghana’s friendly against Wales, a common scenario for him on British soil. The upcoming fixture between Ghana and England on June 23 will see him face the British public once again.
Partey first came under police investigation in February 2022. Arsenal continued to field him in over 100 matches during that period. After leaving the club last summer, he signed a two-year deal with Villarreal. The La Liga side issued a statement stating it would uphold the principle of the presumption of innocence. He has made 32 appearances for Villarreal this season, and jeers have followed him wherever he plays.