GFA Confirms Thomas Partey Is “In Top Shape” Ahead of World Cup Qualifiers
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has assured fans that midfielder Thomas Partey is fully fit and mentally prepared for the Black Stars’ crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in September.
Partey’s inclusion in Otto Addo’s 24-man squad had been the subject of speculation following reports of his ongoing sexual assault case in London, where he is scheduled to appear in court on September 2. The date comes just two days before Ghana take on Chad in their matchday seven fixture.
Addressing the issue, the GFA’s Communications Director, Henry Asante Twum, emphasized that the 31-year-old remains an important figure in the national setup despite his legal situation.
“He is in the right frame of mind,” Henry said in an interview with Asempa FM.
“He is in top shape and so we think that, being a senior player and with his experience, and what he brings to the table, we will need him in these two matches. He is aware [of the court date] but he can come and be part of the team.”
The Black Stars will first travel to N’Djamena to face Chad at the Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno on September 4, before returning home to host Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium on September 8.
Ghana currently sit top of Group I after six matches, and victories in the upcoming international window could edge the team closer to securing a fifth FIFA World Cup appearance.
Partey, who recently signed a two-year deal with Villarreal, has already begun to regain match fitness at club level. He made his second appearance for the Spanish side last weekend, coming off the bench in their emphatic 5-0 win over Girona.
The midfielder’s availability is expected to provide a major boost to Otto Addo’s squad as Ghana push to strengthen their qualification chances.
