Former Arsenal and Ghana international footballer Thomas Partey has been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, involving three women, according to the Metropolitan Police.
The alleged offences occurred between 2021 and 2022 and include:
- Two counts of rape involving one woman,
- Three counts of rape involving a second woman,
- One count of sexual assault involving a third woman.
The 32-year-old midfielder, who recently ended his Arsenal contract on June 30, has denied all charges. His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, stated that Partey “welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name” and confirmed that he had “fully cooperated” with police and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) throughout the three-year investigation.
The charges stem from a police inquiry launched in February 2022, after a report of rape was first received. Partey is expected to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, August 5. A spokesperson for Arsenal FC confirmed Partey’s contract ended but declined further comment due to the legal proceedings. The Football Association and Premier League have also declined to comment.
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, leading the investigation, emphasized support for the women involved and urged anyone with information to contact the Central Investigation Team (CIT). Partey joined Arsenal in October 2020 from Atlético Madrid for £45.3 million, making 130 appearances and scoring nine goals for the club. He also made over 50 international appearances for Ghana, including participation in recent World Cup qualifiers.
