On July 4, 2025, former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey (age 32) was formally charged by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, involving three women—two rape allegations stem from one individual, three from a second, and the sexual assault claim from a third.
The alleged incidents date from 2021 to 2022. Police initially began probing following a complaint in February 2022 and arrested Partey in July 2022, though his identity was not released at that time.
After gathering evidence over approximately three years, the CPS received the probe file in December 2024, followed by additional documentation in April 2025. Upon concluding that there was a "realistic prospect of conviction," charges were laid in July.
Partey denies all charges, stating he has fully cooperated with both the police and CPS and is eager to clear his name.
His first court appearance is set for Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at Westminster Magistrates' Court, though a full trial may not occur until sometime in 2026.
Partey's contract with Arsenal expired on June 30, 2025. While the club engaged in discussions regarding a possible extension, the parties failed to reach a new agreement.
During the investigation period—from his arrest in July 2022 until the charge—Arsenal allowed him to continue playing. Manager Mikel Arteta, breaking his silence on the matter, asserted that the club followed all relevant safeguarding protocols.
Both the Premier League and Football Association have declined to comment, citing the active legal proceedings. Meanwhile, CPS Chief Crown Prosecutor Jaswant Narwal emphasized the necessity for public restraint, warning that commentary could prejudice ongoing criminal proceedings.
Multiple reports confirm that Partey has completed a medical with Villarreal CF and is expected to sign a two-year contract, keeping him in La Liga until 2027, ahead of a friendly match between Villarreal and Arsenal in early August.
A key factor in his potential return to Spain appears to be Villarreal’s qualification for the UEFA Champions League, an opportunity he prioritized over offers from the Middle East or remaining in England.
The move would take place in the delicate context of his pending court appearance; nevertheless, Partey remains a free agent, allowing him to join any club at his discretion
Similar high‑profile cases include Benjamin Mendy, suspended by Manchester City after sexual assault charges in 2021—an action that later resulted in a successful £11 million tribunal claim after his 2023 acquittal.
Arsenal reportedly followed legal advice when deciding not to suspend Partey after his 2022 arrest, balancing the rights and welfare of all involved staff members and the principle of innocent until proven guilty.
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