Otto Addo on Thomas Partey: “I made it quite clear why he is not coming”

Many Ghanaians have questioned Thomas Partey of Arsenal’s commitment towards the Black Stars of Ghana.

The midfielder did not honour Otto Addo’s invitation to the national team in October’s international break against Sudan in the 2025 AFCON qualifers due to a reported injury.

Ghana drew goalless and lost 2-0 to Kwesi Appiah’s Sudan in MD3 and MD4 leading the team to trail the Falcons of Jediane by 5 points.

On Wednesday, Otto Addo named his 25-man squad and the bona-fide midfielder did not receive a call up from Ghana.

The gathered press asked Otto Addo the reason why he did not include Partey in the squad.

Otto Addo said, “I had a confidential talk with Thomas Partey. I am the coach who always wants to protect the players. The whole point for me was getting the understanding. I am not going to tell you the internal issues, but I made it quite clear to him; he wanted to come, but I made it quite clear why he’s not coming.”

The head coach did not reveal the real reason why he did not invite Partey.

The Ghanaian media has been speculating that it is because of Partey’s poor commitment the reason why he was snubbed by the head coach.

Ghanaians are wondering about Thomas Partey’s future with the Black Stars with many urging Otto Addo to prepare for life without the Arsenal midfielder.

A new captain has been appointed since Partey is not part of the team. Jordan Ayew of Leicester City will lead Ghana against Angola and Niger in the last two games of the year 2024.