Ex-Arsenal player Thomas Partey has been accused of rape, according to a statement from the Met Police.

Former Arsenal footballer Thomas Partey has been formally charged with rape by the Metropolitan Police Service.

The 32-year-old Ghana international faces five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.

A statement from the Metropolitan Police on Friday said: “The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised the Metropolitan Police Service to charge a man after detectives submitted a file of evidence.”

The alleged offences are said to have occurred between 2021 and 2022.

The charges involve three women: two counts of rape related to one woman, three counts of rape concerning a second woman, and one count of sexual assault involving a third woman.

Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, who is leading the investigation, said, “Our priority remains supporting the women who have come forward. We urge anyone affected by this case or with information to contact our team at CIT@met.police.uk.”

Jaswant Narwal, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS London North, stated: “The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised the prosecution of Thomas Partey for multiple rape charges after a thorough review of the evidence. Our prosecutors have worked closely with the Metropolitan Police during the investigation to advise on appropriate charges.

“We remind everyone that criminal proceedings are ongoing, and the defendant is entitled to a fair trial. Given the public interest, it is crucial that no reporting, commentary, or online sharing prejudices the case.”

Partey is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 5 August.

His contract with Arsenal ended on 30 June, after five years with the club.

The midfielder joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in 2020 for a reported £45.3 million. During his time at Arsenal, he made 167 appearances and last season played 35 league games, scoring four goals, as the team finished second under manager Mikel Arteta.