Black Stars vice-captain Thomas Partey is now available for Ghana’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Chad and Mali, following the adjournment of his court appearance in the UK on rape and sexual assault charges.
Ghana will face Chad on Thursday, September 4, before hosting Mali on Monday, September 8 in two high-stakes fixtures that could determine the nation’s path to next year’s World Cup.
There had been uncertainty over Partey’s availability for the matches due to legal proceedings in London, where he is facing multiple charges of sexual misconduct. However, the midfielder, 32, who was due to appear at the Old Bailey on Tuesday, had the case postponed to September 15, 2025, allowing him to join the national team.
No reason was given for the adjournment.
The development paves the way for Partey’s first international appearance since the charges were made public, a return that will draw both sporting and public attention.
Partey, who recently signed with Spanish side Villarreal after leaving Arsenal at the end of his contract in June, was granted permission to move to Spain to continue his career amid the ongoing case.
The charges against him include five counts of rape involving two women, and one charge of sexual assault involving a third woman. Prosecutors allege the incidents occurred between April 2021 and June 2022, during his time in the Premier League. One alleged incident of sexual assault is said to have occurred in February 2022.
The midfielder was initially questioned by police in July 2022, following the first complaint, and later returned voluntarily for further questioning in November 2024.
As the legal process continues, Partey’s return to the Black Stars squad comes at a pivotal moment in Ghana’s World Cup journey, though it remains to be seen how his presence will be received both on and off the pitch
