Former Ghana international Anthony Baffoe has admitted that Thomas Partey is yet to reach full fitness, but remains hopeful the experienced midfielder will peak in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Partey featured in Ghana’s recent international friendlies against Austria and Germany, where the Black Stars suffered back-to-back defeats. While his presence added experience to the squad, concerns over his match sharpness have grown following a lack of consistent playing time at Villarreal CF.
The 32-year-old joined the Spanish side after leaving Arsenal FC last summer, but has struggled to secure regular minutes—raising questions about his readiness ahead of the global showpiece.
Baffoe, however, believes the situation is understandable and not beyond recovery, especially with several weeks still remaining before the tournament.
“Thomas Partey is not 100% in shape, which is also fully understandable. They need to be in top form,” he stated, emphasizing the need for all key players to hit peak condition.
With Ghana entering a crucial phase of preparation, the technical team will be closely monitoring Partey’s progress. The Black Stars are scheduled to regroup in May for friendly matches against Mexico and Wales, fixtures that could prove decisive in helping the midfielder regain rhythm and confidence.
Ghana have been drawn in a challenging Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia, making experience and midfield control vital components of their campaign.
For Partey, who has long been a central figure in Ghana’s setup, regaining full fitness could be the difference between another early exit and a deep run in the tournament. The Black Stars will be aiming to improve on their group-stage eliminations in 2014 and 2022, and much could depend on whether their midfield general can rediscover his best form when it matters most.
