SINGAPORE — In a recent statement, Arsenal’s head coach Mikel Arteta expressed his unwavering confidence in the club’s adherence to proper protocols concerning Thomas Partey, who is facing serious allegations, including five counts of rape and one of sexual assault.
Partey, who departed Arsenal earlier this month after his contract expired, was charged by the Crown Prosecution Service just four days later. The charges stem from incidents involving three women that reportedly occurred between 2021 and 2022. Partey has denied all the allegations.
This case originally began when Partey was arrested on suspicion of rape in July 2022, prompting an investigation by the Metropolitan Police. By December 2024, the case was handed over to the Crown Prosecution Service. During this period, Partey continued to feature for Arsenal, and Arteta had previously alluded to the possibility of a new contract for the Ghanaian international.
As Arsenal embarked on their preseason tour across Asia, Arteta was asked about the situation. He conveyed, "The club issued a clear statement. There are many complex legal issues involved, so I refrain from commenting further." However, when pressed about his confidence in the club’s procedures, Arteta asserted his belief, stating, "I am 100% certain."
Arsenal’s official response to the allegations included a note indicating that due to the ongoing legal matters, the club could not provide more information.
As football fans and stakeholders closely follow this unfolding situation, Arsenal continues to prepare for the upcoming season while addressing the serious implications of these charges.
Keywords: Arsenal, Mikel Arteta, Thomas Partey, legal issues, alleged misconduct, preseason tour, Singapore, 2025.