Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo has withdrawn from the Black Stars squad ahead of the team’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia.
Semenyo requested to be excused from the September-October international window as he continues his recovery from a persistent ankle problem.
Reports indicate that the Manchester City forward has been dealing with the injury for some time and is seeking to regain full fitness rather than risk aggravating it during international duty.
The 26-year-old was initially named in Carlos Queiroz’s 24-man squad announced on September 18, alongside fellow forwards including Mohammed Kudus, Ernest Nuamah and Jordan Ayew.
His withdrawal comes just days after one of his strongest performances for Manchester City this season.
Semenyo scored twice and provided an assist in City’s 5-3 Premier League victory over Sunderland on September 20.
He has made an impressive start to the campaign, with five Premier League appearances producing two goals and three assists, according to Asaase Radio.
Semenyo’s absence is another blow to Queiroz’s attacking options, with Mohammed Kudus also unavailable as he continues his recovery following a lengthy injury lay-off.
The GFA has subsequently added nine players to the squad because of medical uncertainties and other absences.
The Black Stars are scheduled to begin their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign against Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on Thursday, September 24.
Ghana will then host The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on September 29 before travelling to Morocco for an international friendly on October 4.