The English media are using this as mind games – GFA on England players hand shake with Thomas Partey
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has dismissed reports suggesting England could consider measures involving players’ interactions with Thomas Partey at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the discussion as an attempt to distract the Black Stars ahead of the tournament.
Speaking on the issue with 3sports, GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum said the association remains fully focused on its World Cup preparations and continues to support the player.
“The English media are using this as mind games to destabilise the team, but we trust and support our player and we remain focused,” he said.
Reports in sections of the English media have claimed that the England Football Association is weighing whether England players should avoid shaking hands with Partey before matches because of rape allegations against the former Arsenal midfielder.
Partey has been accused of rape in a case currently before the courts. He has denied all allegations.
The controversy has emerged just days before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Ghana have been drawn in a challenging Group stage alongside England, Croatia and Panama.
Despite the off-field discussion, Ghana’s football authorities insist the matter will not affect the team’s preparations as they target a strong showing at the tournament.
The Black Stars are expected to begin their World Cup campaign against England in one of the most highly anticipated fixtures of the group stage, with the meeting set to attract significant global attention both on and off the pitch.
Ghana will be seeking to advance beyond the group stage in a pool that also features 2018 World Cup finalists Croatia and CONCACAF representatives Panama.
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