RismadarVoice Reporters, May 27, 2026
Former Arsenal midfielder, Thomas Partey has been included in Ghana’s preliminary 28-man squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, despite ongoing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom.
The 32-year-old, who now plays for Villarreal in Spain after leaving Arsenal in 2025, has pleaded not guilty to seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault involving allegations from four women between 2020 and 2022. He is due to stand trial next year.
Ghana’s national team coach Carlos Queiroz named the midfielder in the squad announced on Tuesday as the Black Stars prepare for the tournament scheduled for next month.
Partey has been a regular feature for Ghana in international competitions, earning over 50 caps and participating in World Cup qualifying matches.
His inclusion comes as Ghana finalises its squad ahead of the global tournament, where the team has been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama.
Meanwhile, Tottenham forward Mohammed Kudus has been ruled out of the World Cup due to a long-term injury setback, dealing a blow to Ghana’s attacking options.
Veteran players and emerging talents feature prominently in the squad, with Manchester City-linked Antoine Semenyo and Athletic Bilbao forward Inaki Williams expected to play key roles.
Defender Abdul Rahman Baba also returns to the national setup after being recalled for the first time since 2023.
Ghana’s provisional squad includes players from clubs across Europe, with a mix of experience and youth as the team seeks to improve on its previous World Cup performances.
