Former Black Stars midfielder and 1978 Africa Cup of Nations winner Willie Klutse has pointed a finger at the management team surrounding Thomas Partey, suggesting that if the rape allegations against the Ghana international are true, it represents a catastrophic failure of guidance and mentorship.
Speaking to Citi Sports following reports that Partey has been charged with two additional counts of rape by the UK's Crown Prosecution Service, Klutse offered a sobering assessment of what can happen when young footballers lack proper support systems abroad.
"About Partey, the guy is going through the most difficult times in his football career, and these are some of the things when you are a star you go through sometimes if you are not disciplined," Klutse said.
The 1978 AFCON winner placed significant responsibility on the player's inner circle.
"If you don't have a very good technical team that will control that kind of situation, they get into trouble. I'm sure, when Partey got to Europe, he didn't have a good mentor or guidance who advised him."
Klutse's words carry the weight of experience. He knows the temptations that accompany fame and fortune, and he knows how quickly a career can unravel without the right people in place.
"So, if all they are saying is true, then his managers didn't help him. If they are true, really true, then his managers in Europe didn't help him. They let him feel free, and he thinks, with his fame, he can do what he likes," he added.
Partey, 32, now faces trial in November 2026 after denying all charges against him. The allegations involve four women, with the most recent charges relating to an alleged offence in 2020. His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, has stated that he continues to maintain his innocence and has cooperated with police throughout.
The midfielder remains on bail, with conditions requiring him to notify police at least 24 hours in advance of any international travel and prohibiting contact with the complainants. He is currently playing for Spanish La Liga side Villarreal and remains eligible for Black Stars selection ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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