Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been omitted from Ghana's squad for their crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Angola and Niger this month, sparking widespread speculation about his future with the Black Stars.
Despite being fit and featuring in Arsenal's recent 1-0 Champions League loss to Inter Milan, Partey's exclusion has surprised many fans and analysts. Sources indicate that head coach Otto Addo made the decision based on tactical considerations, but the move has led to questions about Partey’s commitment to the national team.
Partey’s absence is notable as he also missed Ghana’s October doubleheader against Sudan due to health concerns, opting to stay out despite the team’s request for an evaluation. In his absence, the Black Stars struggled, managing only a draw and a loss, which left their AFCON hopes in jeopardy.
Partey’s loyalty to the national team has faced scrutiny before, especially after his immediate return to Arsenal duties following the last international break. This latest exclusion could signal a shift in coach Addo's strategy as he prioritizes players fully committed to Ghana’s AFCON ambitions.
The Black Stars face Angola in Luanda on November 15, followed by a home match against Niger on November 18. Currently sitting in third place in Group F, Ghana must secure victories in both fixtures and rely on Sudan dropping points to keep their qualification hopes alive.
With the stakes higher than ever, Ghana’s four-time African champions need a perfect end to the qualifiers—and a bit of luck with Sudan's results—to secure their place in the 2025 AFCON tournament in Morocco.
