English Premier League side Arsenal has issued a brief statement following news that former midfielder Thomas Partey has been officially charged by the UK’s Metropolitan Police with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.

The charges stem from alleged incidents that occurred between 2021 and 2022, involving three different women. Partey, 32, is scheduled to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5.

A police statement outlined that two of the rape charges involve one woman, three relate to another, and the sexual assault charge pertains to a third. Partey was initially arrested in July 2022 but continued playing for Arsenal as investigations continued and his identity remained undisclosed.

Responding to the development through BBC, Arsenal stated:

“The player’s contract ended on June 30. Due to ongoing legal proceedings the club is unable to comment on the case.”

Partey’s legal representative, Jenny Wiltshire, said the player firmly denies all allegations:
“Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him. He has fully cooperated with the police and the CPS throughout their three-year investigation. He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which approved the charges, emphasized the need to respect legal procedures and avoid public speculation that could impact the fairness of the trial.

Partey joined Arsenal in October 2020 from Atlético Madrid after the Gunners triggered his £45 million release clause. Over five seasons in north London, he made 167 appearances, scored six goals, and provided seven assists.

He was released by the club at the end of his contract on June 30, just days before the charges were made public. The case is now set to proceed through the UK legal system.