Thomas Partey Named in Ghana World Cup Squad Despite Rape Allegations

Thomas Partey Named in Ghana’s Preliminary World Cup Squad Despite Rape Allegations

Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been selected for Ghana’s preliminary World Cup squad, even though he is currently facing multiple rape and sexual assault charges in the United Kingdom.

Partey, who spent five seasons at Arsenal making 167 appearances, departed the Premier League club after his contract expired at the end of the last season.

Ghana’s head coach Carlos Queiroz announced a 28‑man squad for a pre‑World Cup training camp and an international friendly against Wales in Cardiff on 2 June, with the final roster to be cut to 26 players before the tournament.

Other notable inclusions are Antoine Semenyo of Manchester City, Brandon Thomas‑Asante from Coventry City, Leicester City duo Jordan Ayew and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, and surprise goalkeeper Joseph Anang, who plays for St Patrick’s Athletic in the League of Ireland Premier Division.

Tottenham Hotspur winger Mohammed Kudus missed the cut due to a quad injury that has kept him out since January.

Ghana will open their World Cup Group L campaign against Panama in Toronto on 17 June, followed by matches against England in Foxborough and Croatia in Philadelphia.