Unity Cup 2025: Why Thomas Partey Was Dropped From Black Stars Squad
- Arsenal star Thomas Partey is a notable omission from Ghana's squad for the 2025 Unity Cup
- Otto Addo's 23-man squad for the four-nation tournament was announced on Monday, May 26
- The Black Stars rekindle their rivalry with Nigeria on May 28, with a spot in the final at stake
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The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has explained Thomas Partey’s absence for the upcoming Unity Cup clash against Nigeria in London on May 28.
The Arsenal midfielder was a notable omission after Black Stars head coach, Otto Addo, unveiled his 23-man squad on Monday, May 26.
Source: Getty Images
Why Partey was dropped from Ghana squad
Per the GFA, Partey has been given permission to take some rest time after a physically taxing season, during which he played a key role for his club.
The 31-year-old played a role in helping Arsenal reach the UEFA Champions League semi-finals and seal a second-place finish in the Premier League.
Partey was vital for manager Mikel Arteta, delivering consistent performances and earning praise for his experience and calm presence under pressure.
In a statement, the GFA emphasised that he remained a key figure in coach Otto Addo’s plans but had been excused for the Unity Cup to ensure his full recovery ahead of Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in September.
Kudus, Semenyo, others missing for Black Stars
Mohammed Kudus and Antoine Semenyo are also notably missing from Ghana's squad for the Unity Cup.
According to Henry Asante Twum, Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association, the decision was not tactical but medical.
"The clubs of both Antoine Semenyo and Mohammed Kudus - Bournemouth and West Ham, respectively - informed us that the players featured in their games yesterday with slight discomfort,” he stated, as quoted by Happy Sports.
Athletic Bilbao forward Iñaki Williams and Southampton’s Kamaldeen Sulemana were said to be nursing minor injuries.
Ghana’s defence also took a hit, with Fenerbahce's Alexander Djiku unavailable due to Turkey's domestic season continuing.
Source: Getty Images
Local-based players make Unity Cup squad
Meanwhile, four players from the domestic league have earned a call-up ahead of the Unity Cup clash with Nigeria on Wednesday.
Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare has been given the nod once again, alongside Nations FC midfielder Razak Simpson.
Joining them are Kamaradini Mamudu of Medeama SC and Asante Kotoko's Kwame Opoku, who has enjoyed a great season.
The Black Stars take on Nigeria on May 28 in their first Unity Cup game at the GTech Community Stadium in West London.
Per the GFA website, the winner advances to the tournament's final to face the winner of Jamaica versus Trinidad and Tobago.
Felix Afena-Gyan returns for Black Stars
YEN.com.gh also recently reported on Felix Afena-Gyan's Ghana comeback after being announced as part of the Black Stars squad for the Unity Cup in the United Kingdom.
The 22-year-old forward, who last featured for the senior men's team almost three years ago, was handed a fresh opportunity to impress on the international platform.
Source: YEN.com.gh
