Former Arsenal star Thomas Partey charged with five counts of rape and sexual assault

In a dramatic development that has sent shockwaves through the football world, former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault by the Metropolitan Police Service. The charges, announced on July 4, 2025, follow a three-year investigation and relate to incidents involving three separate women, allegedly occurring between 2021 and 2022.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) authorized the charges after what they described as a “comprehensive file of evidence” was reviewed in close collaboration with the Metropolitan Police. Jas Narwal, the chief prosecutor for London North, stated, “The Crown Prosecution Service has today authorized prosecution of Partey for multiple counts of rape after carefully reviewing a comprehensive file of evidence”. The breakdown of the charges includes two counts of rape involving one woman, three counts involving a second woman, and one count of sexual assault involving a third woman.

Partey, 32, is a Ghanaian international who was a key figure at Arsenal after joining the club from Atlético Madrid in 2020 for £45 million. Over five seasons, he made 167 appearances for the Gunners and played a pivotal role in their midfield, contributing to three consecutive title challenges and a Champions League semi-final run. Despite his initial arrest in July 2022, Partey continued to play for Arsenal while the investigation was ongoing, making 52 appearances in the 2024-25 season.


The footballer’s contract with Arsenal expired on June 30, 2025, just days before the charges were made public. As of the announcement, Partey is no longer under contract with the club, although his profile and replica shirts remained available on the club’s website after the news broke.

Partey has strenuously denied all allegations. His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, issued a statement: “Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him. He has fully cooperated with the police and the CPS throughout their three-year investigation. He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name. Given that there are now ongoing legal proceedings, my client is unable to comment further”.

The Metropolitan Police began their investigation in February 2022 after receiving the first report of rape. Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, who is leading the investigation, emphasized, “Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward. We would ask anyone who has been impacted by this case, or anyone who has information, to speak with our team”. The CPS and police have also urged the public and media to avoid any commentary that could prejudice the ongoing legal proceedings.

Partey is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5, 2025.Under UK law, victims of sexual offences are granted lifelong anonymity, and it is a criminal offence to publish any information that could identify them.