Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has become one of the most closely watched figures at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after being denied entry into Canada while awaiting trial in the United Kingdom on multiple sexual offence charges.
Partey, 32, was named in Ghana’s 26-man World Cup squad despite facing seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.
He denies all the allegations and is expected to stand trial in London, although proceedings initially scheduled for November could be pushed into early 2027.
The controversy intensified ahead of Ghana’s World Cup opener against Panama in Toronto after Canadian authorities declined to grant Partey entry.
While he has secured a visa to enter the United States, he was unable to travel to Canada with the rest of the squad for the opening match.
Canada’s immigration laws allow officials to deny entry to individuals deemed inadmissible on security or criminal grounds. Although Partey has not been convicted of any offence, Canadian authorities declined to comment on his specific case, citing privacy rules.
The midfielder has faced growing scrutiny wherever he has played. During Ghana’s final pre-World Cup friendly against Wales in Cardiff, home supporters booed him throughout his 45-minute appearance.
Despite the controversy, Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has defended Partey’s inclusion in the national team, citing the principle of presumed innocence.
“As far as I know, until the court makes a decision, the presumption of innocence is on the side of all court cases,” Queiroz said.
Partey’s legal troubles stem from an investigation launched by London’s Metropolitan Police in February 2022 following a rape allegation. The probe lasted more than three years while he continued to play for Arsenal, making over 100 appearances after the investigation began.
His contract with Arsenal expired in June 2025, and he left the club after negotiations over a new deal failed. Days later, he was formally charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault involving three women. Additional charges were later brought in February 2026 relating to a fourth woman.
After leaving Arsenal, Partey joined Spanish club Villarreal on a two-year contract. The club acknowledged the ongoing legal proceedings but said it would respect the presumption of innocence until the courts reached a verdict.
As Ghana begins its World Cup campaign, Partey remains a key member of the squad and leadership group. However, his participation in the tournament is overshadowed by the serious allegations against him, making him one of the most scrutinised players on football’s biggest stage.
