Thomas Partey Denied Canadian Visa Ahead of FIFA World Cup Match

Ghana's Vice-Captain Faces Visa Issues

Thomas Partey, the vice-captain of the Ghana national football team, has encountered difficulties in obtaining a Canadian visa, preventing him from participating in the team's opening match against Panama on June 27 at Toronto Stadium. The former Arsenal midfielder is currently facing serious allegations, which have hindered his travel plans. According to a report from a sports news outlet, Partey inaccurately stated that he had no criminal charges against him when applying for the visa.

After being denied a temporary resident visa by Canada’s Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship department, Partey has appealed the decision in Federal Court. Court documents indicate that he answered 'No' to a question regarding any past criminal charges. The player is facing seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, as reported by the Metropolitan Police in London, to which he has pleaded not guilty.

In light of the situation, Ghana's head coach, Carlos Queiroz, has attempted to downplay the issue, stating that the team is prepared for any eventuality. He emphasized that further comments on the matter are unnecessary, focusing instead on the upcoming match. Queiroz remarked, 'My business is to play with the cards that are in front of me. We are waiting for a decision. When the decision comes, we are ready.' Despite the visa setback, Partey has successfully secured a visa to the United States, allowing him to participate in Ghana's subsequent matches against England and Croatia.