Thomas Partey, the former Arsenal and Ghana international midfielder, has vehemently denied multiple rape and sexual assault charges filed against him in the United Kingdom.
His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire of Hickman & Rose, says Partey is prepared to defend himself and welcomes the opportunity to clear his name after a three-year investigation.
Six charges involving 3 women
On Friday, July 4, British authorities confirmed that the 32-year-old has been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.
The charges stem from allegations involving three different women and incidents said to have occurred between 2021 and 2022.
According to the Crown Prosecution Service, two rape charges relate to one woman, while three others relate to a second complainant.
The sexual assault charge is connected to a third woman.
The Metropolitan Police reportedly received the first complaint in February 2022, leading to the long-running investigation.
Partey is scheduled to appear before the Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, August 5.
Lawyer: Partey cooperated fully with investigators
In a strongly worded statement, Partey’s lawyer affirmed her client’s innocence and criticized the length of the probe.
“Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him,” Wiltshire stated. “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 legal proceedings, my client is unable to comment further.”
Free agent after Arsenal exit
The legal charges come just days after Partey parted ways with Arsenal following the expiration of his five-year contract. Negotiations between the club and the player’s representatives to extend his stay beyond the 2024–25 season reportedly stalled, prompting his departure.
Partey joined the Premier League club from Atlético Madrid in 2020 for a reported £42.5 million.
During his tenure, he made 167 appearances in all competitions and scored nine goals.
In the recently concluded 2024–25 season, Partey featured prominently under manager Mikel Arteta, including 31 Premier League starts and 11 Champions League appearances.
Key figure for Ghana’s national team
Beyond club football, Partey remains a significant figure for Ghana’s national team.
He has earned 51 caps for the Black Stars and represented the country at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
His influence on and off the pitch has made him one of the most recognized Ghanaian players of his generation.
Awaiting court appearance
With the charges now formalized, all attention turns to the August 5 court date in London, where Partey is expected to formally respond. Legal experts expect the case to proceed through the UK judicial system over the coming months.
For now, Partey’s football career is on hold as he prepares to fight what could be the most consequential battle of his life—away from the pitch, in a courtroom.
