Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has publicly affirmed the club’s adherence to proper procedures concerning former midfielder Thomas Partey, who recently departed the club and now faces serious charges. Partey, whose contract with Arsenal ended on June 30, was charged on July 4 with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.
The Metropolitan Police reported that the alleged offenses occurred in 2021 and 2022 and involve three different women. Partey, 32, has denied all charges, with his lawyer stating that he “welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
Club’s Stance and Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Detectives initiated an investigation in February 2022 following the initial report of rape. When questioned during a news conference in Singapore, where Arsenal is on a pre-season tour, Arteta declined to comment on the specifics of the case, citing the “complicated” legal matters involved. However, he expressed absolute confidence in the club’s actions.
“The club was very clear in its statement,” Arteta said. When pressed on whether he felt the club followed all the right processes, he responded, “100%, yes.“
Partey is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5.
Partey’s Tenure at Arsenal
The Ghanaian midfielder joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in October 2020 for £45 million. During his time with the Gunners, he made 130 Premier League appearances, scoring nine goals. Last season, he featured in 35 Premier League games, scoring four goals, and played 12 times in the Champions League as Arsenal reached the semi-finals.
