Former Arsenal footballer Thomas Partey charged with rape and sexual assault

Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey was on Friday charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault following allegations made by three women, according to UK police.

The Metropolitan Police stated that the charges against the 32-year-old Ghana international relate to alleged incidents that occurred between 2021 and 2022.

"These charges follow an investigation by detectives, which began in February 2022 after the first complaint was received," the force said in a statement.

Partey's legal team said he "denies all the charges against him".

"He has fully cooperated with both the police and the Crown Prosecution Service throughout the three-year investigation," said Jenny Wiltshire, his solicitor.

"He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.

"Given that legal proceedings are now underway, my client is unable to make any further comment," she added.

Partey, who was charged just four days after leaving the North London club, is scheduled to appear at a central London court on 5 August.

Police confirmed the rape charges relate to two women, while the sexual assault allegation involves a third.

Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, who is leading the investigation, emphasised that their priority remains offering "support to the women who have come forward".

He also encouraged anyone "impacted by the case" or with relevant information to contact the police.