Thomas Partey denied entry into Canada and will MISS Ghana's opening World Cup game amid rape charges

Thomas Partey has been banned from entering Canada and will not play in Ghana's World Cup opener against Panama in Toronto.

The former Arsenal midfielder faces charges of rape and sexual assault, to which he has pleaded not guilty in London.

FIFA have confirmed Partey will not be allowed entry into Canada following reports in Ghana, and will not be able to play on June 17.

Ghana are England's group and will play against The Three Lions in Boston on June 23.

Partey arrived in the US with his team-mates on June 4. They are based in Rhode Island.

A FIFA spokesperson said: 'FIFA can confirm that player Thomas Partey will be unable to travel from Ghana’s team base camp in Boston, USA, to Canada for their first match against Panama on Wednesday, 17 June, as his visa application has been refused by the Canadian government.

'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.'

According to the Canadian government website visitors who have committed crimes can be denied entry. While he has been charged, Partey is awaiting trial and has not been convicted.

In total, Partey has been charged with seven counts of rape and one of sexual assault. He is due to face trial at Southwark Crown Court, London.

His trial was originally scheduled for November, but has faced delays.

The alleged offences are said to have taken place between 2020 and 2022.

The Met Police began an investigation in February 2022. Despite his arrest, Partey, 32, continued to play for Arsenal until his contract expired in 2025.