Thomas Partey Ruled Out of Ghana’s World Cup Opener After Canada Denies Him Entry Over Visa Declaration

The former Arsenal star will not feature in Ghana’s first Group L match after being denied entry into Canada, where the match is supposed to take place.

According to reports, Canadian officials refused him entry after determining that he made an incorrect declaration on his visa application. Apparently, Partey answered “No” when asked whether he had ever been arrested or charged with a crime. However, the midfielder is currently facing criminal charges in the United Kingdom, prompting Canadian immigration officials to conclude that the declaration amounted to misrepresentation under the country’s immigration laws. Partey reportedly appealed the decision in court, but a Canadian Federal Court dismissed the application, leaving him unavailable for Ghana’s opening World Cup fixture.

Partey is currently facing seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault in the UK. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and the case is still before the court. No verdict has been reached, and the allegations remain unproven.

Canada’s decision relates to its immigration rules and the information provided on Partey’s visa application, rather than any determination of guilt in the ongoing criminal proceedings. The development comes as a significant blow to the Black Stars, who were expected to rely on Partey’s experience in midfield during their opening World Cup clash against Panama. While he will miss the match in Canada, reports indicate he could still be available for Ghana’s remaining group-stage fixtures in the United States, subject to any further legal or immigration developments.

Thomas Partey’s absence is a major setback for Ghana as they begin their World Cup journey. While the legal process surrounding the midfielder continues in the UK, the Black Stars will now have to navigate their opening match without one of their most experienced players.