Thomas Partey denied Canada entry, misses Ghana World Cup opener

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey will miss Ghana’s crucial World Cup opener against Portugal after Canadian immigration authorities denied him entry into the country, citing ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom. The 30-year-old’s visa application was reportedly rejected due to multiple rape charges he currently faces in Britain, dealing a significant blow to the Black Stars’ campaign.

Immigration Decision Rocks Ghana’s Squad

Partey was expected to captain Ghana in their Group H fixture scheduled for Thursday at Edmonton’s Commonwealth Stadium. Instead, he’ll watch from abroad as his teammates face Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal without their most experienced midfielder. The Ghana Football Association confirmed the news late Tuesday evening, though they stopped short of explicitly stating the reason for the visa denial.

Canada’s immigration policy strictly prohibits entry to individuals facing serious criminal charges in other countries, particularly those involving violent or sexual offenses. Partey has been under investigation by London’s Metropolitan Police since 2022, with three separate allegations of rape filed against him. He has not been formally charged and denies all allegations.

Arsenal Star’s Legal Troubles Mount

The midfielder’s legal situation has cast a shadow over his career for nearly two years. Yet he’s continued playing for Arsenal throughout the investigation, appearing in 24 Premier League matches this season alone. British police have extended their bail multiple times as the investigation continues.

This isn’t the first time Partey’s off-field issues have created complications. He missed Ghana’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers last year under similar circumstances, though officials cited “administrative reasons” at the time.

Black Stars Face Uphill Battle

Ghana coach Chris Hughton now faces a tactical headache. Partey’s absence leaves a gaping hole in midfield—he’s made 45 appearances for the national team and brings Premier League experience few teammates can match. Ajax’s Mohammed Kudus will likely shoulder additional responsibility in the center of the park.

“We respect the decision of the Canadian authorities and will adjust our plans accordingly,” a GFA spokesman said in a brief statement. “Our focus remains on preparing the team to compete at the highest level.”

But privately, Ghana officials are frustrated. They’d hoped Partey’s legal limbo wouldn’t interfere with World Cup preparations.

The Black Stars already face long odds in a group that includes Portugal, Uruguay, and South Korea. Without Partey anchoring their midfield, those odds just got longer. Ghana hasn’t advanced past the group stage since 2010, and this setback couldn’t have come at a worse time. Their opening match kicks off at 2 p.m. local time on Thursday, with or without their star midfielder.