Ghanaian international and former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has strongly denied multiple allegations of rape and sexual assault brought against him in the United Kingdom.
The 31-year-old footballer has been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, following a three-year investigation by London’s Metropolitan Police. The charges relate to alleged incidents involving three women between 2021 and 2022.
In a statement released by his legal team, Partey’s lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, said the footballer “denies all the charges against him” and is determined to clear his name.
“Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him. He has fully cooperated with the police and the Crown Prosecution Service throughout their three-year investigation,” Ms Wiltshire stated. “He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
Two of the rape charges concern one woman, three others involve a second woman, while the sexual assault charge relates to a third complainant.
Partey is scheduled to appear before the Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 5 August 2025, where he will formally respond to the charges.
The midfielder, who joined Arsenal in 2020 in a high-profile move from Atlético Madrid, has been a key figure for both club and country. However, the allegations have cast a shadow over his career at a time when he was expected to make a move to a new club following the expiration of his Arsenal contract.
The case has sparked widespread debate, particularly among fans and the Ghanaian public, many of whom have called for patience and respect for due process. Supporters have also emphasised the principle of “innocent until proven guilty,” urging that conclusions should not be drawn before the court’s ruling.
Meanwhile, Arsenal and other football bodies have yet to comment officially on the latest developments, though sources indicate that clubs are closely monitoring the legal proceedings.
As the case proceeds, Thomas Partey will continue to cooperate with authorities. His legal team has expressed confidence that he will be fully vindicated in court.
The unfolding case serves as a significant moment not only for the player but also for global sports, highlighting ongoing concerns about player conduct and the importance of upholding justice both for complainants and the accused.
