SportFootballWorld Cup 2026The midfielder has been included in Ghana's squad for the tournament in North America.18:18, 12 Jun 2026Updated 18:29, 12 Jun 2026Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey will not be able to play in Ghana's World Cup opener after being denied entry to Canada for the game. The Black Stars are due to face Panama at Toronto's BMO Field on Wednesday night, but will have to do so without Partey.‌The Athletic reports that Partey has been in America with the Ghana squad as they build up to the tournament, with him travelling to Rhode Island with the squad on Friday. However, his visa application has been denied by Canada.‌In a statement, FIFA 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.”Following the match against Panama, Ghana come up against England at the Boston Stadium on Tuesday, 23 June (9pm kick-off). They then face Croatia in Philadelphia on Saturday, 27 June (10pm kick-off), barring injury, Partey should be available for both fixtures taking place in AmericaArticle continues belowThe midfielder played for Arsenal between 2020 and 2025, before moving to Villarreal as a free agent last summer.There will be more to follow on this breaking news story and Mirror Sport will bring you the very latest updates, pictures and video as soon as possible. Please check back regularly for updates on this developing story. Follow us on Google News, Flipboard, Apple News, Twitter, Facebook or visit The Mirror homepage.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌World Cup 2026Thomas Partey