Thomas Partey’s return to Ghana’s World Cup squad has ensured football is not the only focus ahead of Tuesday’s high-profile clash with England in Boston.
The former Arsenal midfielder is expected to feature after missing Ghana’s opening match against Panama, having been denied entry into Canada because of ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom. Canada rejected his visa application and a subsequent appeal was unsuccessful. Court documents indicated that his application stated he had not been charged with any criminal offence, despite him facing multiple charges in Britain.
Partey, who now plays for Spanish side Villarreal, has pleaded not guilty to seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault involving allegations made by four women between 2020 and 2022. He is due to stand trial next year.
His inclusion in Ghana’s World Cup squad has divided opinion. While some supporters and commentators in Ghana believe the midfielder is being unfairly targeted because he has not been convicted of any offence, others have criticised the handling of the visa application that led to his absence from the opening match.
The Ghana Football Association and head coach Carlos Queiroz have consistently backed Partey’s inclusion, stressing that legal matters should be left to the courts. Queiroz has repeatedly declined to discuss the case in detail during the tournament.
After joining up with the squad in the United States, Partey said he was ready to return to action and looked forward to facing England, including former Arsenal teammates Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka.
Unlike Canada, United States authorities allowed Partey to enter the country for the remainder of the tournament, meaning he is available for Ghana’s matches in Boston and Philadelphia.
The controversy has also created challenges for tournament organisers, broadcasters and football authorities. England players are expected to follow normal pre-match protocols, although the situation has generated significant discussion in both countries.
On the field, Ghana will hope Partey’s experience can boost their chances against an England side targeting qualification for the knockout stages. Off the field, however, the debate surrounding one of Ghana’s most recognisable footballers shows no sign of fading.
For now, Partey returns to the World Cup spotlight with his future on and off the pitch remaining under intense scrutiny.
