Accra, Ghana - The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has addressed concerns surrounding the Black Stars captaincy, clarifying that Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is fully committed to the team's success despite no longer holding the leadership role. According to GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum, Partey's focus is firmly set on the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar.

In an interview with Sporty FM, Asante Twum emphasized that Partey's primary concern is the team's performance, not personal accolades. "It’s not a problem for Thomas Partey that he’s no longer the Black Stars captain," Twum stated. "It’s not about individual aspirations."

Partey last captained the Black Stars in a 1-1 draw against Niger on September 9, 2025, during the 2025 AFCON qualifying round. Subsequent injury and a personal decision, as cited by coach Otto Addo, kept him off the pitch, during which time Mohammed Kudus briefly assumed the captaincy. However, the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco marked a significant setback, being the first time since 2004 that Ghana would miss the continental tournament.

Recent reports suggest a change in leadership, with Leicester City forward Jordan Ayew tipped to be named the substantive captain, especially after his brother Andre Dede Ayew was again omitted from the squad. Meanwhile, Alexander Djiku is expected to serve as deputy, following reports that Partey declined any leadership position at this time. Pulse Ghana understands that Partey is keen on concentrating on his on-field contributions as the team prepares to face Chad and Madagascar, crucial matches for their World Cup qualification campaign.

The Black Stars are set to play Chad on Friday, March 21, 2025, at the Accra Sports Stadium, followed by an away game against Madagascar in Morocco on Monday, March 24, 2025. These matches are critical for Ghana's chances of securing automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.