Former Arsenal Midfielder Thomas Partey charged with multiple counts of rape and Sexual Assault

British police have formally charged former Arsenal and Ghana international midfielder Thomas Partey with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, marking a major development in a high-profile investigation that began more than two years ago.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed on Friday that the charges relate to incidents involving three different women and are alleged to have occurred between 2021 and 2022.

The 32-year-old footballer, who recently became a free agent following the expiration of his contract with Arsenal at the end of the 2024/2025 Premier League season, is expected to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London on August 5.

Timeline and Allegations

According to authorities, the investigation was first launched in February 2022, following a report of rape. Since then, detectives say multiple allegations were uncovered, leading to the current charges.

Four of the five rape charges are connected to one woman, while the fifth charge involves a second alleged victim. The sexual assault charge is linked to a third woman.

“Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward,” said Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy of the Metropolitan Police. He emphasized that the case is being handled with sensitivity and that safeguarding the alleged victims remains paramount.

Career at a Standstill

Partey joined Arsenal in 2020 from Atlético Madrid in a high-profile $61.8 million move and went on to make over 100 appearances for the London club. Once considered a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s midfield, his later seasons were disrupted by injuries and reduced playing time.

Arsenal has not commented publicly on the charges. The club had already announced that Partey’s contract would not be renewed for the upcoming season.

The player has not responded publicly to the allegations, and it remains unclear whether he will contest the charges in court.

As the legal process unfolds, the case is expected to draw widespread attention in both the sports and legal communities, particularly in light of ongoing conversations around athlete conduct and accountability.