Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his confidence that the club adhered to the appropriate protocols in handling the situation involving former midfielder Thomas Partey, who was being investigated by police for multiple rape allegations while he was with the team.
The 32-year-old Ghanaian midfielder departed Arsenal when his contract ended on June 30, and just four days later, he was charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.
A statement from the Metropolitan Police on July 4, said the alleged incidents occurred in 2021 and 2022.
The charges involve three women, with two counts of rape associated with one woman, three counts of rape related to another, and one count of sexual assault concerning a third woman.
Partey has denied the allegations and is eager to “clear his name,” as stated by his lawyer.
The investigation by detectives began in February 2022 after the police received an initial report of rape.
Arsenal is currently in Singapore for their pre-season tour, where they will face AC Milan and Newcastle before heading to Hong Kong to play against Tottenham.
During a press conference ahead of the match against Milan on Wednesday, Arteta was questioned about the Partey situation.
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“The club was very clear in its statement,” Arteta replied. “There are many complex legal issues, so I cannot comment on that.”
When asked if he felt assured that the club had followed the proper procedures, Arteta responded, “100%, yes.”
Partey is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5. He joined Arsenal for £45 million from Atletico Madrid in October 2020.
Last season, he made 35 appearances in the Premier League, scoring four goals as Arsenal finished in second place.
He also played 12 times in the Champions League, helping the Gunners reach the semi-finals before being eliminated by the eventual champions, Paris St-Germain.
