Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey is facing an uncertain future with the Black Stars ahead of the next month's FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Chad and Mali, as he battles with legal issues over anal rape allegations.
The former Arsenal star has been charged with five counts of anal rape involving two women and one count of sexual assault against a third. The alleged incidents reportedly occurred between 2021 and 2022, during his stay in the United Kingdom.
The charges were filed shortly after his contract with the north London-based club expired at the end of June 2025.
The 32-year-old appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5, where he was granted conditional bail. His next hearing is scheduled for September 2 at the Old Bailey.
Amidst the legal proceedings, Partey has opened a new chapter in his professional career by completing a move to Villarreal FC of the Spanish La Liga and he has already featured twice for the club in the ongoing season's campaign.
Head coach of the Black coach Otto Addo is expected to announce his squad for the Matchday 7 and 8 qualifiers this week, with Partey’s inclusion still in doubt.
Ghana will travel to face Chad at the Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno on September 4, before hosting Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium on September 8, 2025. The two matches are crucial for the four-time Africa champions are they chase fifth appearance at the World Cup.
The Black Stars currently sits at the top of Group I, amassing 15 points from six games and the team is determined to secure a ticket to the next edition of the FIFA World Cup scheduled for next year in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
