Anthony Baffoe backs Thomas Partey to hit top form ahead of 2026 World Cup

Former Ghana international Anthony Baffoe has expressed hope that Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey will return to peak condition ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Partey featured in Ghana’s recent back-to-back defeats against Austria and Germany during the March international break, but has struggled for regular playing time since joining Villarreal from Arsenal last summer following the expiration of his contract.

Reflecting on the team’s performances in the pre-World Cup friendlies, Baffoe stressed the importance of full fitness across the squad as Ghana builds toward the tournament.

“Thomas Partey is not 100% in shape, which is also fully understandable. They need to be in top form," he said.

As part of their preparations, the Black Stars are set to regroup in May for a friendly against Mexico, before concluding their buildup with a final test against Wales on June 2.

Ghana, making their fifth appearance at the World Cup, have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia. They will open their campaign against Panama on June 17, followed by fixtures against England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.

The Black Stars will be hoping to improve on recent tournament outings, having exited at the group stage in both the 2014 and 2022 editions.