NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 26: Thomas Partey of Arsenal reacts as he warms up prior to the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest FC and Arsenal FC at City Ground on February 26, 2025 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Former Arsenal and Ghana national team midfielder Thomas Partey has been granted conditional bail after being formally charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault by UK authorities.
The 31-year-old appeared before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, in relation to a series of alleged incidents said to have occurred between 2021 and 2022, during his tenure at the English Premier League club.
The charges were filed just days after Partey officially departed Arsenal following the expiration of his contract earlier this summer.
Chronology of the Case
According to the Metropolitan Police, the investigation into Partey’s alleged conduct began in February 2022, after an initial report of rape was filed by a complainant. Subsequent inquiries resulted in further allegations emerging, culminating in the formal charges being laid this week.
Despite the serious nature of the charges, Partey’s legal team maintains his innocence. His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, reiterated the midfielder’s position, stating:
“Mr. Partey denies all the charges against him and welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
Following his court appearance, the case has now been transferred to the Central Criminal Court (Old Bailey)—the UK’s highest criminal court—where Partey is expected to make his next appearance on September 2, 2025.
Career Developments Amid Legal Troubles
The legal proceedings come at a pivotal point in Partey’s career. Reports from Spanish media indicate that the former Atlético Madrid player is close to signing with La Liga side Villarreal, marking a potential return to Spanish football.
The midfielder’s legal troubles are likely to cast a shadow over his professional future, both at club and international level, pending the outcome of the trial.
Arsenal and Public Reaction
Arsenal Football Club, while confirming his contract expiration, has not released an official statement addressing the legal charges. However, sources close to the club have indicated that Partey’s departure was “not influenced” by the ongoing investigation.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has also yet to issue a formal comment on whether Partey will remain eligible for future national team call-ups as the case unfolds.
A Legal Battle With Far-Reaching Implications
With proceedings now heading to the Old Bailey, the case promises to attract significant media attention, not only due to Partey’s high-profile status but also amid increasing scrutiny over how sports institutions handle allegations of sexual misconduct involving athletes.
If convicted, Partey could face a substantial custodial sentence, potentially bringing his football career to an abrupt end.
Source – My News Ghana
About the Author
