The Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum, has justified the inclusion of Thomas Partey in the Black Stars squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The decision has sparked debate, with many expecting the 32-year-old midfielder to be left out as he faces rape and sexual assault charges in the United Kingdom.
Why Thomas Partey has been included in Ghana’s World Cup qualifiers squad
Partey, now with Villarreal after leaving Arsenal in June, appeared before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5. He has been charged with five counts of rape involving two women, along with one charge of sexual assault against a third woman.
The alleged incidents are said to have taken place between 2021 and 2022 during his time in North London. His next court hearing is scheduled for September 2.
Despite the gravity of the case, Asante Twum insists that Partey is mentally and physically prepared to serve his country.
“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 local radio station Asempa FM as cited by Ghanasoccernet.
“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.
When will Ghana play its World Cup qualifiers?
Ghana will open their September qualifiers with an away clash against Chad at the Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno on September 4, before returning home to face Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium on September 8.
The Black Stars currently sit at the top of Group I after six matches, holding a three-point lead over Comoros and five ahead of Madagascar.
With a fifth World Cup appearance in sight, the team is set to assemble in Accra on September 1 to begin preparations.