2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Ghana FA explains decision to name Thomas Partey in squad for Chad and Mali games amid rape charges allegations

Henry Asante Twum, Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), has defended the decision to include Thomas Partey in the Black Stars squad for next month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Mali.

The 32-year-old midfielder had been widely expected to miss out amid ongoing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom, where he faces multiple charges of rape and sexual assault.

Partey appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, August 5, facing five counts of rape involving two women and one count of sexual assault against a third.

The alleged incidents reportedly occurred between 2021 and 2022, during his tenure at Arsenal.

The charges emerged just days after Partey’s contract with Arsenal expired at the end of June.

He has since joined Spanish side Villarreal, featuring in two matches for his new club. Partey is scheduled to return to court on September 2, two days before Ghana’s qualifier against Chad.

Speaking on Accra-based Asempa FM, Asante Twum emphasized the GFA’s confidence in the midfielder’s readiness.

“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 join the team and is in the right frame of mind to play,” he said.

“If you watch his two games for Villarreal, he is in top shape, and as a senior member of the team, he is ready to return for the games,” he added.

Ghana will open their September fixtures away to Chad at the Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno on Thursday, September 4, before hosting Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday, September 8.

The Black Stars currently top Group I with 15 points after six matches, three ahead of Comoros and five clear of Madagascar, as they aim to secure a fifth FIFA World Cup appearance.

The team is expected to begin camp in Accra on Monday, September 1.