Ghana include former Arsenal and current Villarreal midfielder Thomas Partey in their squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup, despite legal proceedings in the United Kingdom. Multiple outlets report that Partey is charged with seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, which he denies. Reporting also says Partey has pleaded not guilty, and that he faces trial later this year, following hearings held in September 2025 and April 2026. Ghana’s coach Carlos Queiroz is reported to defend the decision to select Partey for upcoming matches, including a World Cup warm-up fixture against Wales in Cardiff. One report also suggests Partey could be available for matches around the tournament, potentially including a game against England, although specific team selection for each match is not fully detailed across sources. Other outlets mention related developments, including prior issues around travel or eligibility, but the consistent points are that Partey is selected by Ghana and that the criminal allegations are ongoing and disputed by him. The articles collectively present the situation as an active legal case alongside a decision to include him in Ghana’s tournament plans.