‘It’s Arsenal. They won’t just ignore it’ – Thomas Partey, the allegations and what the club knew - The Athletic

Thomas Partey played for Arsenal for over three years while facing serious sexual offence allegations, departing upon his contract's expiration on June 30. Four days later, he was formally charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault related to alleged incidents between 2021 and 2022 involving three women. Partey denies all charges, with his lawyer stating he welcomes the chance to clear his name.

One of his accusers highlights the club's conscious choice to continue playing Partey despite legal and moral concerns, emphasizing Arsenal's global influence. She reports receiving severe online abuse—including death threats, rape threats, and harassment—whenever he played or scored, exacerbated by social media's disregard for anonymity protections granted to sexual offence complainants under UK law.

Arsenal, which prides itself on rule adherence, faces scrutiny over its handling of the accusations, including decisions to play Partey and explore contract extensions earlier this year. Questions center on the impact on fans and accusers, and whether legal guidance realistically allowed alternative actions. The club declined comment citing ongoing proceedings.

The Athletic examines Arsenal's awareness timeline, the feasibility of different choices, and the emotional repercussions of their decisions, framing this case within broader patterns of football clubs navigating sexual offence allegations against players.