Ghana Football Association president Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku has thrown his support behind Thomas Partey as the midfielder endures a difficult spell at Villarreal CF.
The former Arsenal FC midfielder has made just 14 appearances for the Yellow Submarine since joining the Spanish side on a free transfer after five seasons in north London.
Partey has recently been charged with two additional counts of rape, bringing the total number of allegations against him to four. He has denied all the charges.
Speaking to Accra-based Asaase Radio, Okraku addressed the situation surrounding Ghana’s vice-captain.
“Thomas Partey is our deputy captain and a key member of the Black Stars. The GFA will not ignore any situation involving a player like Partey. We are in constant contact with him, and he is in a good frame of mind despite what we read online. He has a strong mentality and is preparing to represent Ghana at the World Cup,” Okraku said.
“Thomas knows our position. We stand shoulder to shoulder with him during these challenging times. I am confident that despite everything happening, he will be available for the World Cup.”
The 32-year-old, who has earned 56 caps and scored 16 goals for the four-time African champions, is due to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 13 March, with a trial scheduled for 2 November. He has been granted conditional bail after entering not guilty pleas to the earlier charges, allowing him to continue his professional career without further restrictions.
Born in Krobo Odumase, Partey spent the majority of his club career in Spain, most notably with Atlético Madrid, where he also had loan spells at RCD Mallorca and UD Almería.
In 2020, Arsenal activated his £45 million release clause, securing his services on a long-term deal. He went on to make more than 100 appearances for the Gunners, scoring nine goals.
Despite his underwhelming start at Villarreal, Partey is expected to play a role when Ghana face Panama, England and Croatia in Group L of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by United States, Canada and Mexico this summer.