Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo has withdrawn from the Black Stars squad ahead of the team’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia.
Semenyo was named in head coach Carlos Queiroz’s 24-man squad announced on September 18, 2026, but has subsequently opted out of the upcoming international assignments.
Reports indicate that the Manchester City forward requested to be excused from the squad as he continues to manage an ankle injury that has reportedly been troubling him.
Semenyo has made a strong start to the new season at club level, making five Premier League appearances and contributing two goals and three assists, according to reports. He has also featured in European competition and the FA Community Shield.
His withdrawal represents another adjustment for Queiroz as the Black Stars prepare for the opening fixtures of their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.
Ghana will begin the campaign away against Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on September 24, before hosting The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on September 29. The Black Stars are also scheduled to face Morocco in an international friendly in Tangier on October 4.
Semenyo’s absence comes after Ghana initially included him alongside a number of attacking options in Queiroz’s squad. The original selection also featured Mohammed Kudus, Ernest Nuamah, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Ibrahim Osman, Prince Adu Kwabena and captain Jordan Ayew.
The Black Stars have already experienced changes to the squad ahead of the international window, with other players also unavailable or withdrawing from the team.
The coaching staff will therefore have to adjust their plans as Ghana prepares for two competitive matches within a five-day period.
The opening fixture against Côte d’Ivoire is expected to mark the beginning of a new AFCON qualification campaign for Ghana following the team’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Black Stars will then return home to face The Gambia, before travelling to Morocco for the friendly match in early October.
Semenyo’s withdrawal means Ghana will enter the opening phase of the qualifying campaign without one of the attacking players initially selected by Queiroz.
The circumstances surrounding his absence are expected to be monitored as he continues his recovery, with his eventual return to the national team dependent on his fitness and availability.
For now, Ghana’s immediate focus will be on preparing for the two qualifying matches against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia as the team begins its journey in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
Source: Thepressradio.com
