Thomas Partey makes a return to the squad
Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum, has defended the decision to include Thomas Partey in the Black Stars squad for next month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The 32-year-old midfielder, currently facing rape and sexual assault charges in the United Kingdom, was widely expected to be omitted from the team for the upcoming double-header against Chad and Mali.
Partey appeared before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5, where he was charged with five counts of rape involving two women and an additional charge of sexual assault against a third woman.
The alleged incidents occurred between 2021 and 2022 during his time at Arsenal. He was formally charged just days after leaving the North London club when his contract expired in June. His next court appearance is set for September 2.
Despite the case, Asante Twum says Partey remains in the right mental and physical condition to represent Ghana.
“We have supported all our players, and he is aware that there is a court case ahead of him, but he [Thomas Partey] has assured us that he will be able to come and join the team, and he is in the right frame of mind to play,” he told Asempa FM.
“If you watch his two games he has so far played for Villarreal, he is top shape and as a senior member of the team, he is ready to return, and he is ready for the games,” he added.
Ghana will begin their September fixtures away to Chad at the Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno on September 4, before hosting Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium on September 8.
The Black Stars currently lead Group I after six matches, sitting three points ahead of Comoros and five clear of Madagascar as they target a record fifth appearance at the World Cup. The team is expected to open camp in Accra on September 1.
