2 women accuse Premier League footballer of rape

Fresh allegations against 29-year-old international

A PREMIER League foot- baller who was arrested on suspicion of rape faces further allegations relating to a second woman, police revealed yesterday.

The international player was arrested on Monday over the alleged rape of a woman in her 20s, and was arrested again while in police custody after a second woman said she was also raped.

The second accuser, also in her 20s, told police she was raped twice, in April and June 2021.

The first woman said she was attacked last month.

The footballer, a 29-year-old who cannot be named for legal reasons, was released on bail while police continue their investigation. The Metropolitan Police said he was arrested in Barnet, north London.

It is understood that his club is aware of his arrest, but it is not yet known whether he will play in any pre-season matches, ahead of the start of the Premier League season next month.

The footballer is also due to play for his country at the World Cup in Qatar in november.

In a statement, the Metropolitan Police said: ‘On July 4, an allegation of rape of a woman in her 20s was reported to police.

‘It was reported the alleged rape happened in June 2022.

‘On July 4, a 29-year-old man was arrested at an address in Barnet on suspicion of rape and taken into custody. While in custody, he was further arrested on suspicion of two incidents of rape that were alleged to have been committed in April and June of 2021 against a different woman in her 20s.

‘ He has subsequently been released on bail to a date in August. Inquiries into the circumassault stances are ongoing.’ The arrest follows a series of allegations of sexual misconduct by top-flight footballers, prompting wider concerns about the sport’s culture.

Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy, 27, appeared in court last month to deny multiple accusations of rape, one sexual and an attempted rape against several different women.

The France international has denied the alleged attacks, said to have taken place at his £5million home in Prestbury, Cheshire, and is due to face trial this month. He has been suspended by his club.

Manchester United forwards Mason Greenwood remains on bail over allegations that he raped and assaulted a young woman.

The 20-year- old, who has one England cap, was arrested in January following the posting of images and videos online. He has been suspended from playing or training with his club.

Women’s rights groups have written to the Football Association and the Premier League calling for zero tolerance of violence against women.

‘Inquiries are ongoing’