Editor’s note: This piece was originally published on June 2. It has been updated to reflect the news that Partey is unavailable for Ghana’s first World Cup match.Thomas Partey was called up for Ghana’s World Cup squad despite rape and sexual assault charges against him in the United Kingdom but will miss their opening match in Toronto on June 17.The former Arsenal midfielder, 32, was granted a visa for the United States and is part of Ghana’s training camp at Bryant University, Rhode Island, but he will be unavailable for his nation’s first match against Panama in Toronto next week after being denied a visa to enter Canada.Here, The Athletic explains the allegations against Partey — which he denies — and his participation at this World Cup.What are the charges?On July 4, 2025, Partey was charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, which he pleaded not guilty to in September.These initial six charges relate to three women and are alleged to have taken place in 2021 and 2022. Detectives at London’s Metropolitan Police began their investigation into Partey in February 2022 when they received a report of alleged rape.In February 2026, Partey was charged with two new counts of rape, which he pleaded not guilty to in April. The two further charges relate to a fourth woman after a separate report of non-recent offences in 2020 and following a new investigation by the Met. These allegations were first reported to police in August 2025.Speaking in February, Partey’s defence lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, said: “Thomas Partey continues to deny all charges against him. He has cooperated fully with the police throughout. Given that legal proceedings are ongoing, there will be no further comment.”When does the trial start?The trial at Southwark Crown Court in London was originally scheduled for November but may now be delayed until early 2027.Where and when are Ghana playing at the World Cup?Under the conditions of his bail, Partey is obliged to notify authorities of any plans to travel abroad.