Thomas Partey’s recent charges of rape and sexual assault have shaken the football world, raising questions about the integrity of sports and the treatment of high-profile athletes.
At a Glance
- Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey, 32, has been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.
- The charges involve allegations from three different women and relate to incidents that occurred between 2021 and 2022.
- Partey, who is now a free agent after his Arsenal contract expired, denies all the charges.
- The Premier League star is scheduled to appear in a London court in August.
A Premier League Star Charged with Rape
Former Arsenal and Ghana international midfielder Thomas Partey has been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, the UK’s Crown Prosecution Service announced on Friday, July 4, 2025. The charges relate to allegations from three different women and involve incidents that are said to have occurred between 2021 and 2022.
The news has sent shockwaves through the football world and casts a dark shadow over the career of a player who was a key figure for both his club and his country.
A Three-Year Investigation
The charges are the culmination of a lengthy investigation that began in February 2022 after an initial report of rape was made to police. Partey was first arrested in July 2022 but was not publicly named at the time. He was released on bail and continued to play for Arsenal in the Premier League while the investigation proceeded.
He is now scheduled to make his first appearance at London’s Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5.
A Firm Denial
Partey has vehemently denied the allegations against him. His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, released a statement confirming his position. “Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him,” Wiltshire said, according to Sky Sports. “He has fully cooperated with the police and CPS throughout their three-year investigation. He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
His lawyer Jenny Wiltshire issued a statement: "Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him. He has fully cooperated with the police and CPS throughout their three-year investigation. He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name. Given that there are now ongoing…
— Henry Winter (@henrywinter) July 4, 2025
The Metropolitan Police have emphasized their commitment to the accusers. “Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward,” said Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy.
A Career in Limbo
The charges come at a critical moment in Partey’s career. His contract with Arsenal officially expired on June 30, 2025, just days before the charges were announced, and he is now a free agent. In a statement reported by the BBC, an Arsenal spokesperson said that since he is no longer with the club, they are “unable to comment on the case.” The serious criminal charges now place his future in professional football in profound jeopardy.
