Singapore, July 21, 2025 Mikel Arteta has addressed mounting criticism over Arsenal’s decision to continue selecting Thomas Partey while the midfielder was under police investigation for multiple alleged sexual offences. Arteta said he felt “100 per cent” the club followed the correct processes throughout and stressed that ongoing legal matters limit what he can discuss.
Partey, 32, has been charged in the UK with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault involving three women, with the alleged incidents said to have occurred between 2021 and 2022. He was first arrested in 2022 but was not publicly identified at the time and remained available for selection. His Arsenal contract expired on June 30, 2025, and the charges were confirmed several days later.
The club has faced questions from supporters’ groups and commentators who believe a precautionary suspension should have been considered once senior figures became aware of the investigation. Others counter that employers must balance safeguarding responsibilities with confidentiality obligations, employment law, and the presumption of innocence, particularly when police inquiries are active and names are protected for legal reasons. Arteta reiterated that internal protocols were followed at every stage.
According to investigating officers, the inquiry began after an initial report of rape in February 2022 and expanded as additional complainants came forward. Detectives have asked anyone affected or with relevant information to contact them, emphasizing that support for the women who reported the offences remains a priority.
Through his legal representatives, Partey has denied all charges and said he welcomes the opportunity to clear his name in court. Because criminal proceedings are active, public commentary is constrained by UK contempt‑of‑court rules, and all parties have urged responsible reporting.
Partey is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5. Further hearings will determine how the case progresses.
On the field, Partey was an important figure across five seasons in North London after joining from Atlético Madrid in 2020. He made 167 appearances in all competitions for Arsenal, scoring nine goals and providing seven assists, and featured regularly through the 2024‑25 campaign despite the ongoing investigation.
Anyone seeking advice related to sexual violence can access confidential support lines, and readers are urged not to speculate online while the case is before the courts.
