Thomas Partey set to miss Ghana’s first two games against Madagascar and Comoros due to injury

Black Stars deputy captain, Thomas Partey is now likely to miss Ghana’s first two games of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers later this month.

The 30-year-old is currently nursing a muscle injury. Partey having featured for the Black Stars in the October friendly games against Mexico and USA picked up the injury after teaming up with his Gunners teammates at the training grounds.

Partey did not feature in Arsenal’s 2-2 draw against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Ahead of their Champions League tie against Sevilla, the club confirmed that Partey has suffered a muscle injury which will need further assessment.

However, Mikel Arteta, who is the head coach of the side speaking prior to their Carabao Cup game against West Ham confirmed that the Ghana international will be out for weeks and is not sure when he will return to the pitch.

“I think he will be out for weeks. I don’t know how long but he’s got another appointment today [and] we will see more after that,” Arteta said.

“Yes, [his injury record] is a big concern because when Thomas is fit and available and has been a part of the team we see the results and impact he has on the team.

“This season we’ve had more protection, especially for that reason because we know in the last two seasons what had happened and the impact that had on the team. We have to address it.”

“I am so sorry for him because he is doing everything right to be there,” he added.

“He was gutted…but he needs to lift himself up again with our support and go again because he is a player that is critical for us.”

As earlier reported, Partey will be out until December.

With the Black Stars set to kick off their 2026 World Cup qualifiers this month, the team will miss the services of Thomas Partey.

In the first Group I games, Ghana will take on Madagascar at the Baba Yara Stadium on Friday, November 17 before travelling to face Comoros on Tuesday, November 21 at the Moroni Stadium.

The Black Stars, who have come under pressure will hope to win the games as they hope to make it to a fifth Mundial appearance before leaving for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in January.

Meanwhile, Thomas Partey is expected to be fit for the AFCON that has been scheduled to take place in Ivory Coast from January 13 to February 11.