Thomas Partey believes Ghana’s approach against England must be built around collective strength rather than individual experience as the Black Stars prepare for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Group L encounter.
Speaking to 3Sports at Ghana’s training ground ahead of the match, the midfielder was asked about his previous experience playing in England and how that could help the team against the Three Lions.
Partey, who spent five seasons at Arsenal after joining from Atletico Madrid in 2020, played a key role in the Premier League before moving to Spain to join Villarreal.
The 32-year-old midfielder, however, insists Ghana’s success will not depend on one player’s knowledge of English football but on the team’s ability to execute their game plan.
“I think I’m not the only one who played there. There are still players who are playing there, and I think it’s about the team, collective play,” Partey said. “We have to work on our way of play and try to compete with them.”
Partey has been one of Ghana’s most experienced figures on the international stage, having featured in multiple major tournaments including the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
He missed Ghana’s opening match against Panama after being unable to enter Canada, but is expected to play a key role as the Black Stars face England.
The midfielder also dismissed concerns about the weather conditions ahead of the match, saying the focus must remain on performing on football’s biggest stage.
“I think we train here and I don’t wake up to check the weather, so we have to go there and enjoy. We are here to play. That’s what the World Cup is about. To compete and then give some joy to your country,” he explained.
Ghana head into the match with confidence after Caleb Yirenkyi’s late goal secured a 1-0 victory over Panama, while England started their campaign with a 4-2 win against Croatia. Partey believes mental preparation will be crucial against one of the tournament favourites.
“By training, I think everything is mental. You have to be ready for whatever. The minute your body can go through, you just give your best and that’s it,” he added.
The Black Stars will face England at Gillette Stadium knowing a positive result could strengthen their chances of reaching the knockout stage.
