Breaking: Ex-Arsenal star Thomas Partey appears in court over rape charges

Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London on Tuesday to face five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault involving three different women.

The 32-year-old Ghanaian international, who left Arsenal at the end of June after his contract expired, was officially charged last week just four days after his exit from the North London club.

Partey, who denies all allegations, is accused of:

Two counts of rape against one woman

Three counts of rape against a second woman

One sexual assault against a third woman

The alleged offences reportedly took place between 2021 and 2022, and have been under investigation since February 2022. According to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), the decision to charge Partey followed a three-year investigation and a “comprehensive review” of the case file.

His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, said:

“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.”

Critics have accused the Premier League giants of ignoring the issue during Partey’s time at the club.

While Arsenal confirmed his contract ended on June 30, a spokesperson said:

“Due to ongoing legal proceedings the club is unable to comment on the case.”

Partey signed for Arsenal in 2020 from Atletico Madrid in a £45 million deal. He made 35 Premier League appearances last season, scoring four goals.

Now, with his playing future on hold and a serious court battle ahead, Partey’s career and reputation hangs in the balance.