Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey charged with rape: What you need to know
Former Arsenal and Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has been formally charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, relating to allegations involving three women between 2021 and 2022. The 32-year-old, whose contract with Arsenal ended on July 1, is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5, 2025. As the legal proceedings begin, here’s what you need to know.
1. Serious Charges Filed by CPS and Met Police
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) authorized charges against Partey following a thorough investigation by the Metropolitan Police. He faces a total of five rape charges, two against one woman, three against another, as well as one count of sexual assault involving a third woman. The incidents reportedly took place between 2021 and 2022.
2. Timeline of the Investigation
The investigation began in February 2022 when the Met launched a formal inquiry after receiving the first allegation. Partey continued to play for Arsenal at that time. He was arrested in July 2022, but his identity remained protected until the CPS authorized the charges now.
3. Partey’s Arsenal Career Now Ended
Thomas Partey joined Arsenal from Atlético Madrid in October 2020 and made 167 appearances over five seasons. His contract expired on July 1, 2025, and was not renewed. He is currently a free agent, leaving his future uncertain as he faces legal proceedings.
4. Court Date Scheduled for August
Partey is expected to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5, 2025 to face the charges. These proceedings follow standard legal processes for serious allegations in the UK and likely include bail conditions and a plea hearing.
5. Emphasis on Fair Trial and Public Conduct
The CPS has urged the public to avoid prejudicing the legal process, stressing that Partey is innocent until proven guilty, Prosecutors and the Met emphasize the need for discretion and safeguarding the rights of all involved.
6. Support Offered to Alleged Victims
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, leading the investigation, confirmed that support services are being provided to the women who came forward. The Met Police is also calling for anyone with additional information to come forward.
7. High Public Interest in the Case
Given Partey’s profile, both as a key player at Arsenal and an international figure with Ghana, this case has drawn intense media attention. Coverage across major news outlets underscores its significance within sports and legal circles.
8. Partey’s International Reputation at Stake
As a seasoned professional who excelled at Atlético Madrid and later at Arsenal, where he joined for £45–50 million, Partey built a reputation as a midfield anchor and Ghanaian icon. These charges therefore represent a pivotal moment affecting both reputation and ongoing careers.
9. Implications for Arsenal and Football Community
Arsenal no longer has Partey on its books, but the broader football community will be watching how clubs and players address conduct and legal accountability in such cases. The extent of institutional response may set precedents moving forward.
10. What to Expect as the Case Progresses
The August court hearing is likely to involve an initial plea and possibly bail conditions. If the case advances, it may move to Crown Court for trial. Both the defence and prosecution will build their cases in the coming months, with media coverage expected to follow key judicial milestones.
Thomas Partey’s charging marks a serious escalation in a long-running investigation with far-reaching consequences. As he prepares to enter court, legal advocates stress respect for due process. The coming weeks will be critical in determining the public and judicial outcomes of these allegations.
