The government of Ghana says it will take legal action against Canada after its national team midfielder, Thomas Partey, was reportedly denied entry into the country ahead of the FIFA World Cup.

In an official statement, the government described Canada’s decision as “extremely unfair and disappointing,” adding that it will challenge the ruling in Canada’s Federal Court in an effort to have it overturned.

According to Ghanaian authorities, the decision is believed to be connected to ongoing criminal proceedings involving Partey in the United Kingdom. However, they emphasized that the case has not resulted in any conviction, court judgment, or formal finding of guilt against the player.

The government strongly argued that denying the player entry based on unresolved allegations goes against the principle of fairness and due process. It maintained that individuals should not be treated as guilty while legal proceedings are still ongoing.

Officials also expressed concern that the decision could affect Ghana’s preparations and performance at the World Cup, stressing that Partey is an important member of the national squad.

Ghana further stated that it remains committed to defending the rights of its citizens abroad and will pursue all necessary legal channels to ensure justice is served.

The authorities said they are confident that the Canadian Federal Court will review the matter fairly and take into account the absence of any conviction in the UK case.

The situation has sparked debate among football fans and legal observers, with many questioning whether immigration decisions should be influenced by unresolved legal cases in other countries.