Ghana’s midfielder Thomas Partey will not be able to play in the opening World Cup match against Panama due to a visa denial from Canadian authorities, FIFA confirmed on Friday.
The 32-year-old player was supposed to join the Ghana national team as they traveled from their training camp in Boston to Canada for the game scheduled on Wednesday. However, FIFA stated that due to the visa issue, Partey cannot make the trip.
A FIFA spokesperson said, “We can confirm that Thomas Partey will not be able to travel from Ghana’s base in Boston to Canada for their first match on June 17, as his visa application was declined by the Canadian government.” The organization noted that it does not influence immigration issues for host nations. Canadian officials haven’t commented on the visa refusal.
Despite this setback, Partey will still be able to play in Ghana’s upcoming matches in Group L, which include games against England and Croatia in the United States. He is currently with the rest of the team, continuing preparations despite missing the first match. His absence is a blow to Ghana, who are counting on his experience as they face Panama.
Partey has earned 57 caps for the national team and is a key player for Ghana. He recently played in a warm-up match against Wales as the team prepared for the World Cup.
Legal Issues Persist
Partey’s visa rejection comes during ongoing legal issues in the UK, where he faces serious allegations of rape and sexual assault, which he firmly denies. A trial that was expected to start this year at Southwark Crown Court has been pushed back to June 8, 2027.
Partey has appeared in court and pleaded not guilty to all charges. He remains on bail with conditions, including no contact with the alleged victims. After five years with Arsenal from 2020 to 2025, he recently signed with Spanish club Villarreal but remains eligible for selection despite his legal troubles.
His next court date is set for October 2, while Ghana prepares to kick off their World Cup journey against Panama without one of their star midfielders.
