Ghana have suffered another setback ahead of the September-October international window, with Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo withdrawing from the Black Stars squad.
According to a report by 3Sports, Semenyo has been ruled out after suffering a swollen ankle, meaning he will not be available for Ghana’s upcoming international assignments.
The 26-year-old was included in Carlos Queiroz’s original 24-man squad for Ghana’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign and the subsequent international friendly against Morocco. His withdrawal comes at an unfortunate time for the Black Stars, particularly after his impressive start to life at Manchester City.
Semenyo has quickly become an important attacking option for his club since joining City and produced a standout performance in their recent Premier League victory over Sunderland. The Ghanaian scored twice and provided an assist as Manchester City secured a thrilling 5-3 win at the Etihad Stadium.
His current form had raised expectations ahead of his return to the Black Stars, but the ankle problem will now keep him out of the upcoming international fixtures.
Ghana are preparing for a demanding schedule, beginning with a 2027 AFCON qualifying encounter against Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on September 24. The Black Stars will then return home to face The Gambia on September 29, before travelling to Morocco for an international friendly on October 4.
Semenyo’s withdrawal adds to the list of players unavailable to Queiroz. Mohammed Kudus has already opted out of the squad as he continues his recovery and works towards regaining full fitness with Tottenham Hotspur.
The absence of Semenyo leaves Queiroz with fewer attacking options as Ghana begin their campaign to qualify for the 2027 AFCON tournament. The Portuguese coach will now have to assess the remaining forwards in his squad and determine how best to adjust his attacking plans.
Semenyo had been expected to provide pace, physicality and a goal threat for the Black Stars during the international window. His recent performances for Manchester City had also strengthened his case for a key role in the national team.
Ghana will therefore enter the September-October window without one of their in-form attacking players, with the focus now shifting to the available members of Queiroz’s squad.
Source: 3Sports
