Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been charged with five counts of rape, British police confirmed on Friday.
In addition to the rape charges, Partey faces one count of sexual assault. The alleged offenses took place between 2021 and 2022, according to police.
Partey’s lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, told Britain's Press Association that he “denies all the charges against him,” adding: “He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
The 32-year-old Ghanaian international is currently a free agent after his contract with Arsenal expired at the end of last season. Partey joined the Premier League club in 2020 from Spanish side Atletico Madrid for 45.3 million pounds ($61.8 million).
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Police said the investigation began in February 2022 following an initial report of rape. The five rape charges involve two women, while the sexual assault charge relates to a third woman.
“Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward,” Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy of the Metropolitan Police said.
Partey is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, August 5, police said.