Former Arsenal star and Ghanaian international Thomas Partey has been formally charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, stemming from incidents reported between 2021 and 2022.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed the charges on Tuesday, stating that three women are involved. Two of the rape charges relate to one woman, three additional rape counts involve a second woman, and the sexual assault charge concerns a third.
Partey, 32, has denied all allegations.
“Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him,” his lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, said in a statement. “He has fully cooperated with the police and CPS throughout their three-year investigation. He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
The legal proceedings follow a lengthy investigation launched in February 2022, after police received an initial report of rape.
Partey, who joined Arsenal from Atlético Madrid for £45.3 million in October 2020, made 130 Premier League appearances for the club and was a key figure during their recent campaigns. He scored nine goals overall and played a crucial role last season, making 35 league appearances and contributing four goals as Arsenal finished second. He also featured 12 times in the Champions League, helping the club reach the semi-finals before falling to eventual champions Paris Saint-Germain.
The midfielder’s contract with Arsenal officially expired on Monday, marking the end of his tenure at the club amid the legal developments.
In a report, BBC News indicated that both Arsenal and the Football Association were reached out for comment. However, the Premier League has declined to respond.
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, who is heading the investigation, emphasized the police’s focus on the women involved.
“Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward,” he said. “We would ask anyone who has been impacted by this case, or anyone who has information, to speak with our team. You can contact detectives about this investigation by emailing CIT@met.police.uk”
Partey, who resides in Hertfordshire, is expected to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, August 5.
Internationally, Partey has made over 50 appearances for Ghana and most recently featured in World Cup qualifying matches in March.
As the legal process begins, Partey’s future on and off the pitch remains uncertain.
“Given that there are now ongoing legal proceedings, my client is unable to comment further,”
Wiltshire added.
