Thomas Partey denied entry to Canada as FIFA issue World Cup statement | Football | Sport

The Athletic reports that Partey has been with the Ghana squad in America as they prepare for the tournament, having travelled to Rhode Island with the team on Friday. However, his visa application has been turned down by Canada.

In a statement, FIFA confirmed: “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.”

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada have previously told the Athletic: “Without any signed consent form, it is not possible for IRCC to provide details regarding any individual situation. We can, however, state that the safety and security of Canadians is our priority as we welcome FIFA World Cup participants and visitors from around the world. That is why IRCC applies its rules consistently and without exception, regardless of nationality, profile, or role in the tournament.

“IRCC officers are trained decision makers who assess an individual’s eligibility and admissibility in accordance with Canadian immigration laws. If they believe that an individual could pose a security risk, they may decide to deny them entry.”

Following their clash against Panama, Ghana face England at the Boston Stadium on Tuesday, 23 June (9pm kick-off), before taking on Croatia in Philadelphia on Saturday, 27 June (10pm kick-off). Barring any injury setbacks, Partey is expected to be available for both fixtures on American soil. The midfielder represented Arsenal between 2020 and 2025 before departing as a free agent last summer to join Villarreal.

Partey boasts three previous World Cup appearances, having played every single minute for his country during the 2022 tournament in Qatar. Serving as vice-captain of the national side, he has accumulated a total of 57 caps throughout his international career.