Two of football’s biggest names — former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey and Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi — are now entangled in separate rape trials that threaten their careers and reputations.
Partey Granted Bail, Denies All Charges
On Tuesday, Thomas Partey was granted conditional bail after appearing before Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London on five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault involving three different women.
The alleged crimes reportedly occurred between 2021 and 2022, during his stint at Arsenal. British police first received reports in February 2022.
Partey’s lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, said:
“He denies all the charges against him and welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
Partey’s court appearance came just four days after his contract with Arsenal expired at the end of June. He had joined the club in 2020 from Atlético Madrid for £45 million and played 167 matches, scoring 9 goals. Reports now link him with a move to Villarreal.
Arsenal, commenting briefly, stated:
“The player’s contract ended on June 30. Due to ongoing legal proceedings, the club is unable to comment on the case.”
French Prosecutors Push for Hakimi Trial, Possible 15-Year Sentence
In a parallel development, PSG’s Achraf Hakimi may be heading to trial after French prosecutors formally recommended he be tried for alleged rape following a February 2023 complaint by a 24-year-old woman.
Hakimi was indicted in March 2023 but has consistently denied the allegations, insisting the encounter was consensual and calling the case an attempted extortion.
His lawyer, Fanny Colin, blasted the prosecution's recommendation, stating:
“It’s incomprehensible and senseless. The allegations are unfounded and contradicted by evidence.”
But the alleged victim’s legal team praised the move. Her lawyer, Rachel-Flore Pardo, said:
“My client welcomes this news with immense relief. Justice is moving in the right direction.”
Meanwhile, French outlet L’Équipe released leaked WhatsApp messages that suggest the accuser and a friend may have plotted to frame Hakimi, adding a layer of controversy to the case.
Hakimi, who is out on bail, remains under judicial supervision and is prohibited from contacting the accuser.
If convicted, Hakimi could face up to 15 years in prison under French law.
