It’s been a dramatic and deeply serious turn of events for former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey.
Although he officially left the club at the end of June, his player profile remained live on Arsenal’s website as of this week—even after news broke that he’s facing multiple criminal charges.
From Arsenal Exit to Major Legal Trouble
Just five days after his contract with Arsenal expired on June 30, Partey was charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, involving three separate women.
The allegations stem from incidents said to have occurred between 2021 and 2022, during his time in North London.
These charges come after a three-year investigation conducted by the Metropolitan Police.
The 32-year-old will now face a hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court scheduled for August 5.
His Arsenal Profile Remains Online
Despite these serious developments and his recent departure from the club, Partey’s official player bio is still accessible on the Arsenal website.
It highlights his on-field performance during the past season, including praise for his “tough tackling,” “authority on the ball,” and ability to control play during Arsenal’s strong run-in, where they finished second in the Premier League and reached the Champions League semi-finals.
It also recounts his previous successes with Atlético Madrid, where he won both the Spanish La Liga and Europa League, and recognition as Ghana’s Player of the Year in 2018 and 2019.
Details of the Charges
According to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), Partey is accused of five counts of rape: two involving one woman and three involving a second woman.
The additional sexual assault charge pertains to a third alleged victim.
The identities of all the women are being protected for legal reasons.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that their investigation began in February 2022, after a report was filed.
Partey was first arrested in July 2022, although his name was not made public at the time.
He continued playing for Arsenal during this period, reportedly making over 50 appearances while on bail.
Partey Maintains His Innocence
In a statement released through his lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire of Hickman and Rose, Partey strongly denied all allegations.
“He has fully cooperated with the police and CPS throughout their three-year investigation,” Wiltshire said.
“He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
Because legal proceedings are now underway, Partey will not be commenting further at this time.
Police Urge Anyone Affected to Come Forward
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, who is leading the investigation, emphasized that the primary concern remains the well-being of the women who have come forward.
“We would ask anyone who has been impacted by this case, or anyone who has information, to speak with our team,” Furphy said.
Those with information are encouraged to email the investigative team directly at CIT@met.police.uk.
A Club in Silence and a Cloud Over the Game
As of now, Arsenal has not made a public statement regarding Partey’s legal situation or why his profile remains on their site post-departure.
With the charges now public and a court date set, the spotlight is back on the club—and the wider footballing world—to address how such serious allegations are handled while balancing legal due process and public accountability.