Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has denied all allegations after being charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in the United Kingdom.

The charges relate to incidents allegedly involving three different women between 2021 and 2022. According to the CPS, Partey has been charged with two counts of rape involving one woman, three counts of rape involving a second woman, and one count of sexual assault involving a third. He is expected to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 5 August.

In a statement issued by his lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, Partey dismissed all the allegations. “Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him. He has fully cooperated with the police and CPS throughout their three-year investigation. He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name,” she said, adding that Partey would not comment further due to ongoing legal proceedings.

The Crown Prosecution Service, represented by Jaswant Narwal, confirmed the charges after what it described as a thorough review of a comprehensive file of evidence submitted by the Metropolitan Police. “Our prosecutors have worked closely with officers in the Metropolitan Police who have carried out the investigation, to review the evidence and advise on the appropriate charges,” Narwal noted.

The CPS reminded the public that the proceedings are now active and stressed the importance of ensuring the integrity of the trial. “We remind everyone that criminal proceedings are active, and the defendant has the right to a fair trial,” Narwal said. “It is absolutely vital that there is no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”

Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, who is leading the investigation for the Metropolitan Police, reaffirmed the force’s commitment to supporting those who have come forward. “Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward. We would ask anyone who has been impacted by this case, or anyone who has information, to speak with our team.”

The charges come just four days after Partey officially left Arsenal following the expiration of his contract. During his nearly five-year stint with the club, the Ghanaian international made 130 appearances, scoring nine goals. Partey had joined Arsenal in October 2020 from Atlético Madrid after the London side activated his £45 million release clause.

Born in Krobo Odumase, Ghana, Partey started his European career with Atlético Madrid, going on to make 188 appearances and helping the Spanish side win the Europa League in 2018. His time at Arsenal was marked by injury struggles, although he enjoyed a strong final season in which he featured 52 times across competitions.

Internationally, Partey has earned 53 caps for Ghana, scoring 15 goals. He remains a prominent figure for the Black Stars.