England defender Spence declines to shake hands with Partey before 2026 World Cup match

Djed Spence ignored Thomas Partey during the pre‑match handshakes before England’s World Cup game against Ghana, according to The Sun.

The 33‑year‑old former Arsenal midfielder, who is currently facing a criminal trial and several rape charges, walked past Spence while the Spurs defender stared ahead and kept his hands down.

This incident follows Partey’s refusal of entry into Canada, which prevented him from playing in Ghana’s opening match against Panama last week.

He was, however, allowed to enter the United States for last night’s Group L match against England.

Footage shows Spence, 25, skipping the Villarreal midfielder, who otherwise followed the usual protocol with every other England player in the lineup.

Partey has been charged with seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault relating to alleged incidents in London between 2020 and 2022.

The Ghana international was charged last July with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, before being charged with two additional new counts of rape in February.

He denies all the charges and is set to face trial in the UK as late as next year.

During a post‑match press conference, Thomas Tuchel was prevented from answering when asked about his view on the snub.

Also Read: World Cup 2026: Ghana Were Excellent — Rooney Praises Black Stars After Draw With England

England’s lead communications manager stopped the German coach from detailing his thoughts on the matter, citing legal reasons.

The FA, as well as Tuchel, had previously advised the England squad to focus on the tournament and avoid any discussion on politically sensitive topics.

The Three‑Lions players were given the decision on whether or not they would choose to shake Partey’s hand.

This included his former Arsenal teammates Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka.

Partey’s alleged offences date from April 2020 to June 2022, when he was playing for Arsenal.

He was initially charged four days after his contract expired in July 2025.

Partey joined Arsenal on a £45 million deal in 2020, after years of success with Atlético Madrid.