Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey has dispelled rumours of a rift within the national team over the captaincy, insisting there is no internal tension and that the controversy has been exaggerated by outside voices.
The debate over who should wear the armband for Ghana has dominated headlines in recent months. During the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, a reshuffle in leadership roles further intensified the public conversation. While Partey previously wore the armband in the absence of long-time captain Andre Ayew, his recent injury layoff led to Mohammed Kudus captaining the team in a double-header against Sudan. In the subsequent match, Jordan Ayew led the side.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) later confirmed Jordan Ayew as the Black Stars’ new substantive captain ahead of the resumption of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Addressing the matter publicly for the first time in an interview with 3Sports, Partey played down any suggestion of unrest, stating that the team remains united.
“Personally, I've never thought of controlling or being the head of anything. I came to the Black Stars willingly. I want to be here because I have seen a lot of good players give everything for Ghana and enjoy it,” the 31-year-old said.
“When we switch from one captain to the other, it has to be smooth. I don't know where the fight is coming from. I think it’s from outside. In the team, we don’t talk about any player or captaincy.”
Partey also emphasized that the noise from outside the camp is causing unnecessary distraction for both the players and coaching staff.
“The problem is from outside, not inside. Then it becomes a problem for the coach because he gets asked about it, and the player also gets asked. Inside, there is nothing. Outside, everybody talks about it, and it becomes a problem,” he added.
With Ghana preparing to return to action in September for Matchdays 7 and 8 of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, where they will face Chad and Mali, Partey’s comments come at a crucial time as the Black Stars aim to maintain focus and unity ahead of decisive fixtures.
