Arteta Stands Firm on Arsenal's Handling of Partey Amid Serious Criminal Allegations

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has declared he is "100%" assured and satisfied with how the club handled matters concerning ex-midfielder Thomas Partey.

The 32-year-old Ghanaian player's Arsenal deal concluded on June 30. Four days following this, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) officially brought charges against Partey for five rape allegations and one sexual assault charge.

A CPS statement disclosed: "These accusations involve three different women who reported events occurring between 2021 and 2022. Partey is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Tuesday 5 August 2025."

Partey's initial arrest occurred in July 2022. During that period, media outlets withheld his name as U.K. legislation protects suspects from public identification until police file charges. Throughout the investigation period, he remained active for Arsenal, accumulating 108 matches in all tournaments. As late as June, the club acknowledged that contract extension discussions with Partey were still in progress.

After news emerged about the legal proceedings involving their former player, Arsenal remained silent until approached for commentary. A club representative provided this concise statement: "The player's contract concluded on June 30. Given the active legal proceedings, the club cannot provide comments on this matter."

During his initial public appearance following the charge announcement, Arteta faced inquiries about this sensitive topic. "The club's position was made clear in its statement," the Spanish manager informed gathered media this week. "There are numerous legal aspects that are highly complex, so I'm unable to discuss any of that."

When questioned whether Arsenal adhered to proper procedures, Arteta responded directly: "100%."

Partey's legal representative, Jenny Wiltshire from Hickman and Rose, shared their client's position after the charges were announced. "Thomas Partey refutes all accusations made against him," the statement indicated. "He has provided complete cooperation with police and CPS during their three-year inquiry. He now looks forward to the chance to definitively vindicate himself.

"Since legal proceedings are now underway, my client cannot provide additional comments."