Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been formally charged with multiple counts of rape and sexual assault, according to a statement released by the Metropolitan Police Service.
The 32-year-old Ghanaian international is facing five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, involving allegations made by three different women. The incidents are alleged to have occurred between 2021 and 2022.
In a statement, the Metropolitan Police confirmed that Partey was initially arrested in July 2022 as part of an ongoing investigation. Following extensive enquiries spanning nearly three years, formal charges have now been brought against him. He is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 5 August 2025.
According to the police, two of the rape charges relate to one woman, while three separate rape charges involve a second complainant. The single count of sexual assault pertains to a third woman.
Thomas Partey, who recently parted ways with Arsenal following the expiration of his contract on 30 June 2025, has denied all allegations through his legal team. His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, stated that her client has fully cooperated with the authorities throughout the investigation and strongly denies any wrongdoing.
“The allegations are entirely false. Mr Partey is confident that he will be fully vindicated,” Wiltshire said in a statement released to the press.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has emphasised the importance of allowing due process to take its course, urging the public and media to refrain from sharing material that could compromise the fairness of the upcoming trial. “Criminal proceedings against Mr Partey are now active and he has the right to a fair trial,” a CPS spokesperson said.
Partey joined Arsenal in 2020 from Atlético Madrid in a high-profile £45 million transfer and made over 100 appearances for the North London club. Known for his commanding presence in midfield, he was also a key figure for the Ghanaian national team.
The charges mark a significant development in a case that has garnered considerable public attention since initial reports emerged in 2022. His arrest at the time had sparked widespread speculation, though details remained scarce as the investigation continued.
As a free agent, Partey’s future in professional football remains uncertain pending the outcome of the legal proceedings. Meanwhile, his case is expected to proceed to a pre-trial hearing in August, with a trial date likely to be scheduled thereafter.
