Former Arsenal and Ghana international footballer Thomas Partey has been formally charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, according to a statement released on Friday by London’s Metropolitan Police.
The 32-year-old faces allegations involving three women, with the alleged offenses said to have taken place between 2021 and 2022. Police confirmed that the five rape charges relate to two women, while the sexual assault charge involves a third complainant.
“Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward,” said Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy. “We would ask anyone who has been impacted by this case, or anyone who has information, to speak with our team.”
The investigation began in February 2022 following the first report of rape. Partey was initially arrested in July 2022 but was not publicly named at the time. He continued to play for Arsenal as inquiries continued.
Partey is currently a free agent following the expiration of his contract with Arsenal at the end of last season. He joined the North London club from Atletico Madrid in October 2020 for €50 million ($59 million) and was a key figure in the team during his tenure.
He is scheduled to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5. His management has not yet responded to media requests for comment.
