Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta has spoken about the criticism the Gunners have faced for playing Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey when he was under investigation over rape allegations.
Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta has opened about the rape allegations facing former midfielder Thomas Partey.
Partey is facing various counts of rape and sexual assault in the UK, having been charged just four days after the expiration of his Arsenal contract.
The Ghanaian midfielder, who has denied the charges, was first arrested in 2022, but was not named at the time, and he continued to play for Arsenal until the end of the 2024-25 season.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports
Partey’s accusers are three women with the offences reported to have taken place between 2021 and 2022, having joined the Gunners in 2020 from Atletico Madrid.
)
11:36 - 21.07.2025
Marcus Rashford: How Manchester United Cleared Path to Camp Nou
The England forward Marcus Rashford has arrived in Spain to complete a season-long loan move from Manchester United to Barcelona.
Arsenal and Arteta have been slammed for continuing to play the midfielder even after learning that he was under investigation for multiple counts of rape but the Spanish coach has stood firm over his and the club’s decision.
What Has Arteta Said Over Playing Thomas Partey?
)
"The club was very clear in its statement. There are a lot of legal matters that are very complicated so I cannot comment on any of that,” Arteta said on Monday during Arsenal pre-season camp in Singapore. Arteta then he said he felt “100 per cent” that the club followed the right process during the whole saga.
Partey will appear at London's Westminster Magistrates' Court on August 5 to answer to the charges with the case putting his football career in jeopardy.
"The charges follow an investigation by detectives, which commenced in February 2022 after police first received a report of rape," a Met Police statement said as per Sky Sports.
)
09:30 - 21.07.2025
Paul Pogba: Why Letting Marcus Rashford Leave Manchester United Is a Big Mistake
Paul Pogba expressed disappointment over Manchester United's decision to send Marcus Rashford on loan to Barcelona, calling it a mistake.
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, whose team is leading the probe, said: "Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward."
Partey was an integral member of Arteta’s team during his five-year stay at the North London club, making 167 appearances, scoring nine goals and weighing in with seven assists.