Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey had a turbulent year in 2025 as he faced major challenges ranging from his club career to being charged with rape.

The former Atlético Madrid midfielder left Arsenal, and shortly afterward, he was charged with rape.

He fought in court to secure bail and currently plays for Villarreal in the Spanish La Liga.

This GhanaWeb article details what could be termed the woes of Thomas Partey in 2025.

Partey leaves Arsenal

Thomas Partey officially left Arsenal on July 1, 2025, after his contract expired, bringing an end to his five-year spell at the Emirates, following his £45 million move from Atlético Madrid in September 2020.

It was reported that Arsenal were looking to free up their wage bill and recruit more young talents in the summer transfer window.

With Partey on a reported £250,000 weekly wage, Arsenal were unwilling to increase his salary.

In the 2023/2024 season, Partey played 30 matches for Arsenal across all competitions, scoring two goals and providing two assists.

Thomas Partey granted bail on rape charges

Rape Charges

Shortly after leaving Arsenal, the midifelcer was charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) confirmed on Friday, July 4, 2025.

According to the Metropolitan Police, the charges include two counts of rape involving one woman, three counts of rape involving a second woman, and one count of sexual assault concerning a third woman.

The alleged offences were said to have taken place between 2021 and 2022.

Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, who is leading the investigation, stated “Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward. We would ask anyone who has been impacted by this case, or anyone who has information, to speak with our team.”

Police said the investigation began in February 2022 after they first received a report of rape.

Partey appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.

Charges Denial

The former Arsenal midfielder, however, denied all allegations after the CPS charged him with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault involving three women between 2021 and 2022.

Partey’s lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, released a statement asserting his innocence.

“Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him. He has fully cooperated with the police and CPS throughout their three-year investigation. He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name,” she stated.

She added that Partey would not be making any further public comments while the legal process is ongoing.

Jaswant Narwal, Chief Crown Prosecutor, confirmed the charges, stating they were based on a detailed body of evidence compiled by the police.

“Our prosecutors have worked closely with officers in the Metropolitan Police to review the evidence and advise on the appropriate charges,” he added.

Bail

Partey was granted conditional bail after being charged with five counts of rape.

The Black Stars player again appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5, 2025, for a hearing into the charges.

Following discussions in court, the judge decided to grant him bail under certain conditions after a plea was made.

On the day, Partey was seen wearing a black zip‑neck jumper and carrying a navy blazer as he entered court. He stood with his arms behind his back in the dock.

While he continues to play football for Villarreal, prosecutors will investigate the case further and recall it in November 2026 for a final ruling.

SB/AE

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