Partey, 3 Others Out Of AFCON Qualifiers

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has withdrawn from Ghana’s squad for their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Sudan due to medical reasons.

The 30-year-old was initially named in Otto Addo’s 25-man squad and was expected to captain the Black Stars in the absence of Andre Ayew. His withdrawal followed Arsenal’s request for additional medical tests, which forced him to stay in London as a precautionary measure.

Arsenal’s concern over Partey’s fitness is the primary reason behind his absence. Despite featuring prominently in Arsenal’s Premier League campaign this season, including an 84-minute performance in their 3-1 victory over Southampton on October 5, Partey’s health has become a matter of scrutiny.

Ghanaians are particularly disappointed as Partey had seemed to overcome last season’s injuries, leading many to question his commitment to the national team.

However, a close source within the Ghana Football Association (GFA) clarified that Partey is dealing with an illness rather than an injury, debunking rumors that he faked his condition. Arsenal insisted on keeping him in London for further medical tests instead of allowing him to join the Black Stars in camp.

In addition to Partey, three other players; Joseph Paintsil from LA Galaxy, Osman Ibrahim of Feyenoord, and Kingsley Schindler from Samsunspor, have also been ruled out due to injuries. Paintsil sustained a hamstring injury during LA Galaxy’s recent win and is scheduled for an MRI on October 7. Osman Ibrahim similarly picked up a hamstring injury over the weekend, and Schindler encountered a medical emergency that prevented him from traveling to Accra.

In response, Coach Otto Addo has called up replacements to strengthen the squad for the crucial qualifiers. Michael Baidoo of IF Elfsborg, Cercle Brugge’s Abu Francis, Jonas Adjetey, and Ibrahim Sadick have been drafted in to fill the gaps left by the sidelined players. With Partey out, Leicester City forward Jordan Ayew is expected to step up as captain for the pivotal games.

Ghana faces Sudan in a doubleheader, with the first match set for Thursday, October 10, and the second leg scheduled for October 14

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