Black Stars Coach Otto Addo Confirms to GFA That Thomas Partey Will Be Available for 2026 WCQ
- Otto Addo has confirmed that Thomas Partey will feature in Ghana’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers
- Many had expected the former Arsenal midfielder to be left out due to his ongoing legal case in the UK
- Under his bail terms, Partey is required to inform UK authorities before linking up with his Black Stars teammates
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Black Stars coach Otto Addo has confirmed that Thomas Partey will be available for Ghana’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers, despite the legal storm surrounding the midfielder in the United Kingdom.
The 32-year-old’s name appeared in the 24-man squad to face Chad and Mali next month, a decision that left many followers of the team stunned, given his current situation.
Source: Getty Images
Thomas Partey's legal battles in the UK
The former Arsenal man has been battling serious allegations in London. He appeared before the Westminster Magistrates' Court and was granted conditional bail while maintaining his innocence.
His release terms are strict, per the BBC. Partey must notify the police about any change of address and seek approval whenever he plans to travel abroad.
This means that before linking up with his Ghana teammates, he must inform authorities of his trip.
His next court date has been set for Tuesday, September 2, at the Central Criminal Court, popularly known as the Old Bailey. The hearing comes just two days before Ghana’s opening game against Chad.
Away from the courtrooms, Partey has already begun life with his new club in Spain.
After leaving the North London club in June, he signed for Villarreal and has featured in two competitive fixtures for the Yellow Submarine. His fitness and rhythm have been encouraging signs ahead of national duty.
The Black Stars sit at the summit of Group I as they aim for a fifth World Cup appearance.
Victories over Chad and Mali would push them to the brink of sealing qualification for the 2026 tournament in North America, per Ghanasportspage.
Source: Getty Images
Why Partey made Ghana's World Cup qualifier squad
Speaking on Accra-based Asempa FM, the Ghana Football Association’s Communications Director, Henry Asante Twum, explained why the experienced midfielder was included despite the looming trial.
“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,” Asante Twum said.
He further revealed that Partey’s availability had been confirmed directly with coach Otto Addo before the squad was made public.
"Henry, Thomas will be available. 'I have spoken with him, and he will join us on time; he will travel with us to Chad, and he will also be available for Mali. Those were the words of the coach," he recounted on Sporty FM in a different interview.
Watch the video:
Asante Twum also pointed to Partey’s sharp displays for Villarreal as proof that the midfielder is ready to contribute.
“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 noted.
With Ghana on the cusp of qualification, the decision to keep faith in Partey underlines both the trust of the technical team and the player’s importance to the national side.
German-born defender gets first Black Stars call-up
In a separate report, YEN.com.gh highlighted that German-born defender Derrick Arthur Kohn has received his first call-up to the Black Stars.
The left-back has been on Ghana’s radar for some time, and his consistent displays in the Bundesliga have now earned him a deserved spot in Otto Addo’s squad.
Source: YEN.com.gh
