Ex-Arsenal Midfielder Thomas Partey Charged With Rape, Arrives in Court

Thomas Partey, the 32‑year‑old former Arsenal midfielder, has formally appeared today at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London. He is facing five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault , relating to alleged incidents between 2021 and 2022.

The charges—two counts of rape against one woman, three against another, plus a sexual assault charge—were brought by the Crown Prosecution Service after a multi‑year investigation by the Metropolitan Police, which began after the first report in February 2022. Partey was officially charged on 4 July 2025, shortly after leaving Arsenal when his contract expired at the end of June.

Partey denies all the charges. His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, has stated that he welcomes the opportunity to clear his name and that he fully cooperated with both police and CPS throughout the investigation.

Partey has been granted conditional bail after appearing in court.

Club Situation

Partey left Arsenal at the end of June 2025 when his contract was not renewed, ending a five‑year spell at the club during which he made approximately 167 appearances and scored nine goals.

He is now reportedly close to signing a contract with Villarreal in Spain on a free transfer—with terms including a one‑year deal (with optional extension). This signing will give Partey the opportunity to continue playing in the Champions League.