Arsenal Boss Backs Club’s Handling of Partey

Arteta Confirms Arsenal Followed Proper Procedures in Thomas Partey Case

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has strongly defended the club’s handling of former midfielder Thomas Partey’s situation, insisting that all procedures were properly followed while the player was under police investigation.

Partey, 32, officially left Arsenal on 30 June when his contract expired. Just four days later, the Ghanaian international was charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. According to the Metropolitan Police, the alleged offences took place between 2021 and 2022 and involve three women, two charges of rape connected to one woman, three charges to a second, and one count of sexual assault linked to a third.

Partey has denied all allegations. His legal team has stated that he “welcomes the opportunity to clear his name” in court. Police investigations into the matter began in February 2022, following an initial report of rape.

Speaking during Arsenal’s pre-season tour in Singapore, where the team is preparing to face AC Milan and Newcastle before heading to Hong Kong to meet Tottenham, Arteta was questioned about the club’s response to the case.

“The club was very clear in its statement,” Arteta said during a press conference. “These are complex legal matters, so I cannot comment on the details. But do I feel confident and comfortable that the club followed the correct processes? 100%, yes.”

Partey is expected to appear before Westminster Magistrates' Court on 5 August.

The midfielder joined Arsenal in October 2020 for £45 million from Atletico Madrid. Last season, he played a key role for the Gunners, making 35 Premier League appearances and scoring four goals as Arsenal finished second. He also featured 12 times in the Champions League, helping the team reach the semi finals before being eliminated by eventual winners Paris Saint Germain.