Wolves release statement after online reaction to arrest of two Premier League players over alleged rape

According to The Sun, two footballers, who are both 19 and reportedly play for the same Premier League club, were released on bail after being interviewed by police over the alleged incident. Amid online speculation about the identity of the individuals, who allegedly carried out the attack on Friday, Wolves have released a statement saying the allegations do not pertain to anyone at the Midlands outfit.

An official statement posted on X by the club reads: "A newspaper article published yesterday (Tuesday) has triggered inappropriate online speculation over the identities of two individuals reportedly under police investigation. 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."

On Tuesday, a police spokesperson said: "Officers have arrested two men following a report of a rape. 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.”

In 2022, the Premier League introduced mandatory sexual consent training for footballers and staff following high-profile incidents involving top-flight players. It is not currently known if the accused players have been suspended pending the outcome of the police's investigation.