UMVA has learned that Villarreal midfielder Thomas Partey has been barred from entering Canada ahead of Ghana’s World Cup showdown with Panama.
The 33‑year‑old faces six rape charges and one sexual assault claim in England, a legal storm that erupted after his Arsenal contract ended and a brief stint in Spain. He appeared in court to deny the accusations, but additional charges were added this year, with a trial scheduled for next year in London.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the Ghanaian star’s visa application was rejected by Canadian authorities, leaving him stranded in Boston where the Black Stars are holding camp.
FIFA clarified that it has no control over immigration decisions, noting that the host nation ultimately decides who may enter. The denial means Partey will miss the opening match in Toronto set for midnight UK time.
Despite the setback, Ghana’s squad remains in the United States, with future games against England in Boston and Croatia in Philadelphia still on the calendar.
For Villarreal, the season has been a struggle. Partey has struggled to secure a starting spot, drawing criticism from manager Marcelino Garcia Toral. The club maintains that he is innocent until proven guilty, but it is unclear whether they will extend his contract for another year.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that the legal and logistical hurdles surrounding Partey could ripple through both his club and national team campaigns, adding a tense layer to an already high‑stakes tournament.
