Wolverhampton Wanderers have denied that two members of their squad are the Premier League footballers who were arrested on suspicion of rape and assault over the weekend.
The two players, both aged 19 and play for the same Premier League team, have been released on bail after being interviewed by police. It’s understood that the Premier League club have suspended both players, pending the outcome of a police investigation.
‘Officers have arrested two men following a report of a rape,’ a police spokesperson said. ‘A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault and aiding and abetting a rape. A second 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of rape. ‘Both men have since been released on police bail.’
Following a wave of speculation on social media, Wolves released a statement on Wednesday denying that it is two of their players who are involved.
‘A newspaper article published yesterday has triggered inappropriate online speculation over the identities of two individuals reportedly under police investigation,’ Wolves’ statement read.
‘Whilst we would not typically comment on ongoing police matters, in order to protect the welfare of our young players, we feel it is necessary to confirm that the allegations do not relate to anyone at Wolves.’
The Premier League introduced mandatory sexual consent training at clubs, for both players and staff, during 2022. It followed a string of incidents involving players in the Premier League, including Mason Greenwood and Benjamin Mendy.