Full Breakdown
Ivan Toney Pleads Not Guilty to Soho Nightclub Assault Charge
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Court Appearance and Plea
On December 6, 2025, England striker Ivan Toney was alleged to have head-butted and punched Saber Da Silva at a nightclub on Wardour Street in Soho. The Metropolitan Police investigation led to a charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Toney appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on October 1 and, after confirming his name and age, entered a plea of not guilty. District Judge Briony Clarke noted that the case could proceed in the magistrates’ court but Toney elected for a Crown Court trial before a judge and jury. He was released on unconditional bail pending a further hearing at Southwark Crown Court on October 29.
Background & Context
Ivan Toney, 30, began his professional career with Northampton Town before spells at Newcastle United, Peterborough United and Wigan Athletic. He joined Brentford in 2020, scoring 72 goals over four seasons and helping the club win promotion to the Premier League in 2021. In 2024 he transferred to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli for a reported £40 million. Toney has earned 10 caps for England, featuring in the squad that reached the Euro 2024 final and the 2026 World Cup, scoring once for the national team.
Timeline
- December 6, 2025 – Alleged assault at a Soho nightclub.
- July 31 – Toney charged following a Metropolitan Police investigation.
- October 1 – First court appearance; not-guilty plea entered.
- October 29 – Scheduled Crown Court hearing at Southwark.
Data & Statistics
- England appearances: 10 caps, 1 goal.
- Brentford record: 72 goals in 4 seasons.
- Transfer fee to Al-Ahli: approximately £40 million.
- Bail: unconditional, released pending October 29 hearing.
Official Statements & Responses
The judge’s remarks clarified that the case could be tried in the magistrates’ court, but Toney chose a Crown Court trial. A spokesperson for Toney issued a statement indicating that the player is “naturally shocked” and intends to clear his name in court.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Ivan acknowledges the charge and although he is naturally shocked, he looks forward to being given the opportunity to clear his name in court.” — Ivan Toney, judge
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All consulted sources consistently report the same date of the alleged incident (December 6), the charge date (July 31), the not-guilty plea on October 1, and the scheduled Crown Court hearing on October 29. No substantive discrepancies or missing information were identified across the reports.
What’s Next
The case will be heard at Southwark Crown Court on October 29, where a judge and jury will consider the evidence and determine whether Toney will be convicted of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.