Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey has been refused entry to Canada ahead of Ghana’s World Cup opener with Panama.

The Black Stars have been training in Boston, USA. According to world football governing body FIFA, Partey was unable to travel from Ghana’s US base to Toronto with the rest of his teammates as his visa application “has been refused by the Canadian government”.

As previously reported, the former Arsenal midfielder is facing allegations of rape and sexual assault in the United Kingdom (UK) by four different women who accuse him of incidents between 2020 and 2022. His trial will start in June 2027.

“I am deeply disappointed not to be able to join my teammates in Canada for our opening World Cup match against Panama,” says Partey.

“Representing Ghana on the biggest stage is an honour I take very seriously, and I was fully prepared and looking forward to contributing to the team. While I respect the decisions of the authorities, I remain focused on proving my innocence in the ongoing matter in the UK, as I have always maintained. I have cooperated fully throughout and believe in the process.

“My thoughts are with the Black Stars and Coach (Carlos) Queiroz as they prepare for this important game. I will continue to support the team from afar and I’m committed to being available for the matches ahead where possible. Ghana, we fight together—on and off the pitch. Thank you to the fans for your continued support. Let’s make this World Cup one to remember.”

Partey will be available to play against England in Ghana’s second Group L fixture, which takes place in Boston on Tuesday, 23 June. Ghana’s final group game is with Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27.

FIFA said: “FIFA is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries, including the adjudication of visas. As with previous FIFA events, the host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and is admitted into the country.”