Manchester City star Antoine Semenyo ruled out of Ghana’s AFCON qualifiers with ankle injury

Ghana’s preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers have suffered another blow following the withdrawal of Antoine Semenyo from the Black Stars squad.

The Manchester City forward has been forced to pull out of Carlos Queiroz’s squad after suffering an ankle problem that has left him with significant swelling, according to 3Sports.

Semenyo’s absence comes at an unfortunate time for the Black Stars, with the forward having enjoyed a strong start to the new season and emerging as an important attacking figure for both club and country.

The 26-year-old was expected to play a key role in Ghana’s opening qualifier against Côte d’Ivoire, but his injury means Queiroz will have to make adjustments to his attacking plans ahead of the crucial encounter.

The Black Stars are already dealing with a number of absences, with Mohammed Kudus and Thomas Partey among the notable players who have also withdrawn from the squad.

Ghana will open their qualification campaign away to Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké before hosting The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium in their second fixture.

The two matches represent an important start to Ghana’s campaign as the four-time African champions look to secure a place at the 2027 AFCON after failing to qualify for the previous edition of the continental tournament.

With Semenyo now unavailable, Queiroz will be required to find alternative solutions in attack and may have to place greater responsibility on the other forwards in his squad.

The latest setback further increases the pressure on Ghana’s remaining players to deliver as the Black Stars begin their pursuit of a return to Africa’s biggest international football tournament.