- 2026 FIFA World Cup: Handshake Question Emerges as Partey Set for Ghana’s Crucial England Clash
The build-up to Ghana’s pivotal FIFA World Cup showdown with England has been overshadowed by questions surrounding the traditional pre-match handshake involving Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey.
According to reports in the United Kingdom, England players will be left to make their own decisions on whether to shake hands with Partey before Tuesday’s Group L encounter in Boston, with the English Football Association opting not to issue any formal guidance on the matter.
The issue has surfaced ahead of what promises to be one of the most significant matches in the group stage, with Ghana looking to build on their opening victory over Panama and England seeking to strengthen their bid for a place in the knockout rounds.
Partey is expected to make his first appearance of the tournament after visa complications prevented him from featuring in Ghana’s opening match. The experienced midfielder was unable to travel to Canada, where the Black Stars secured a dramatic 1-0 win over Panama thanks to a stoppage-time strike from rising star Caleb Yirenkyi.
Reports indicate that Canadian authorities denied Partey entry following concerns related to information contained in his visa application. Efforts by Ghanaian officials, including Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, to secure a review of the decision were ultimately unsuccessful.
Now available for selection in the United States, Partey’s anticipated return is expected to provide a major boost to Ghana as they prepare to face one of the tournament favourites.
The former Arsenal midfielder remains one of the most influential figures in the Black Stars squad and his presence could prove vital against an England team packed with Premier League talent.
According to UK media reports, the Football Association intends to keep the focus firmly on football and will allow players to decide individually whether to participate in the customary pre-match handshake.
England manager Thomas Tuchel is also reported to have avoided discussions relating to Partey’s legal situation, preferring to concentrate on preparations for the match itself.
The matter is likely to attract additional attention given Partey’s previous spell at Arsenal, where he played alongside several current England internationals, including Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka.
Partey is due to stand trial in London next year on multiple criminal charges, all of which he denies. The allegations have generated considerable discussion in both Ghana and England, placing the midfielder under intense scrutiny throughout the World Cup.
Despite the off-field attention, Ghana’s primary focus remains their campaign on the pitch. The Black Stars head into the clash full of confidence after their victory over Panama and will hope the return of their deputy captain can help them secure another positive result.
For England, the objective is equally clear: maintain momentum and edge closer to qualification from a competitive Group L.
