2026 World Cup: Sannie Daara commends Thomas Partey for maintaining his focus amid visa issues

Male footballer in a yellow Ghana national team jersey with a black star emblem and number 5, standing on the field with a serious expression.

By Jamaldeen Wiayuka June 16, 2026

Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) Communications Director Ibrahim Sannie Daara has commended Thomas Partey for maintaining his focus and leadership role within the Black Stars despite the uncertainty surrounding his participation in Ghana’s World Cup campaign.

The Ghana midfielder was unable to travel with the team for their opening Group L match against Panama after Canadian authorities denied him entry. He remains in the United States while the Ghanaian government pursues diplomatic and legal avenues in an effort to overturn the decision.

Speaking in an interview with broadcaster Kafui Dey, Mr Daara said the ongoing situation, coupled with serious allegations facing the player in the United Kingdom, would naturally have placed a significant emotional burden on him.

“Naturally, as a human being, the allegations against him are really serious, and somehow they have subdued him,” he said.

Despite the challenges off the pitch, Mr Daara said Partey has continued to demonstrate commitment to the national team and has remained an influential figure within the squad.

“Despite all the things people have written in the press, and sometimes the vile messages on social media, he’s kept his head high and continued,” he added.

According to Mr Daara, the former Arsenal midfielder has remained actively involved in the Black Stars’ preparations and continues to work closely with team captain Jordan Ayew in guiding the squad.

“I’m happy to see that even in the face of all these things, he’s keeping his head high. He’s training with the team and joining Jordan as one of the leaders of the group, helping to lead the boys,” he said.

Mr Daara also expressed hope that the allegations against the midfielder would ultimately be disproven.

“I pray that all those allegations made against him are untrue,” he said.

Partey has denied all charges through his legal representatives. Criminal proceedings relating to the case are ongoing in the United Kingdom.

Meanwhile, Ghanaian authorities continue efforts to secure a reversal of Canada’s visa decision, with diplomatic engagements and legal processes underway as they seek to make the midfielder available for the Black Stars’ World Cup opener.