Ghanaian footballer Thomas Partey has been named in the nation's preliminary 28-man squad for the upcoming World Cup, despite facing serious legal challenges in the United Kingdom. The 32-year-old midfielder, who previously played for Arsenal, is scheduled to stand trial next year after pleading not guilty to seven charges of rape and one count of sexual assault.

The allegations involve four different women and date back to the period between 2020 and 2022. Partey's legal troubles began last July, shortly after his contract with Arsenal concluded. He subsequently joined Spanish club Villarreal in August 2025, two days after being granted bail.

Despite these charges, Partey has been an active participant in Ghana's World Cup qualifying campaign, accumulating 58 appearances for his national team. His inclusion in the squad was announced by veteran coach Carlos Queiroz, who also confirmed that Tottenham Hotspur forward Mohammed Kudus will miss the tournament due to a quadriceps injury sustained in January.

The implications of Partey's inclusion remain a significant talking point. While his legal process is ongoing, his selection highlights the complex intersection of sporting careers and legal proceedings. The player has maintained his innocence throughout the legal process.

Partey moved to Villarreal in 2025 after a five-year tenure at Arsenal. His transfer to the Spanish club occurred shortly after his initial charges were filed and after he secured bail. The team's management at Villarreal has not publicly commented on the situation.

Coach Queiroz will be looking to other key players for the World Cup campaign, including Manchester City's Antoine Semenyo and Athletic Club's Inaki Williams. The squad also sees the recall of former Chelsea defender Abdul Rahman Baba, now playing for PAOK, for the first time since 2023.

Ghana has been drawn into Group L for the World Cup, where they will face formidable opponents including Croatia, England, and Panama. The preliminary squad announcement provides a glimpse into the team's composition as they prepare for the global tournament.

Key questions remain regarding how Partey's legal situation might evolve and potentially impact his availability or performance during the World Cup. The trial date is set for next year, meaning the legal proceedings will continue well beyond the tournament itself.