Why did Canada deny entry to Ghana’s Thomas Partey? Can he play against England?

Thomas Partey’s absence from Ghana’s opening game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup raised plenty of questions, especially after the Black Stars defeated Panama without one of their most experienced players. Now, as Ghana prepares to face England in a pivotal Group L encounter, attention has turned once again to the former Arsenal midfielder and whether he will be available.

And the answer is yes: Partey is eligible to play against England and has declared himself ready for the game.

Why was Partey denied entry into Canada?

Canadian authorities refused Partey’s visa application before Ghana’s opening match against Panama in Toronto. According to court documents and immigration rulings, the application stated that he did not have pending criminal charges, despite the fact that he is currently facing multiple rape and sexual assault charges in the United Kingdom, all of which he denies.

A Canadian judge later rejected an emergency appeal that sought to overturn the decision and allow him to enter the country for the World Cup opener. Authorities concluded that the application failed to disclose material information related to the ongoing proceedings.

Representatives connected to the player have argued that the visa paperwork was handled by the Ghana Football Association rather than by Partey personally. However, the appeal was unsuccessful and he remained in the United States while his teammates traveled to Canada.

Can Partey play against England?

Yes. Unlike Canada, the United States granted Partey entry, allowing him to remain with Ghana at its U.S.-based World Cup camp. Since Ghana’s second group-stage game against England is being played in Boston, there are no immigration obstacles preventing him from taking part.

On the eve of the match, the 33-year-old said he was fit, available and looking forward to facing several former Premier League rivals, including former Arsenal teammates Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka.

What does it mean for Ghana?

Ghana began the tournament with a 1-0 victory over Panama despite Partey’s absence, putting the Black Stars in a strong position heading into the clash with England. A return for one of the squad’s most experienced midfielders would provide a significant boost as Ghana attempts to take a major step toward the knockout rounds.

A draw would likely guarantee it, even as one of the best third-placed teams, but if they were to lose, the fewer goals the better to help their chances. Croatia is the final group game.

The longer-term issue has not disappeared, however. If Ghana advances and is required to play another match in Canada later in the tournament, the same immigration restrictions could once again prevent Partey from participating.

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