The English Football Association (FA) is reportedly considering advising England players to avoid the traditional pre-match handshake with Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey ahead of the Group L clash between Ghana and England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, is scheduled to see the Black Stars face England national football team in Boston on June 23.
According to reports, internal discussions within the FA are focused on how players should approach pre-match formalities involving Partey, who is currently facing seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault in the United Kingdom.
The former Arsenal F.C. midfielder, now with Villarreal CF, has pleaded not guilty to all charges, with legal proceedings still ongoing.
Despite the case, Partey was named in Ghana’s final squad for the World Cup, a decision that has sparked debate over whether the customary handshake ceremony should take place before the match.
The handshake tradition has long been regarded as a symbol of respect and sportsmanship between competing teams. However, the allegations surrounding Partey have reportedly led English football authorities to review how their players may participate in the pre-match routine.
Neither FIFA nor the English FA has officially confirmed any final decision regarding the matter.
