Ghana fans divided as Antoine Semenyo returns to fitness after AFCON withdrawal

Antoine Semenyo’s return to fitness ahead of Manchester City’s clash with Liverpool has sparked fresh debate in Ghana over his commitment to the Black Stars.

The 26-year-old withdrew from Ghana’s squad for last month’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia after reporting a swollen leg and the need for treatment.

Ghana Football Association president Kurt Okraku confirmed that Semenyo was upfront about his condition before leaving the squad, and the forward has since focused on his recovery.

Semenyo has now returned to full fitness and is reportedly in contention to feature when Manchester City face Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.

His availability so soon after the international break has divided opinion among Ghana supporters. Some fans have questioned his commitment to the Black Stars, particularly after his withdrawal was followed by a return to club football and a potential appearance in a major Premier League fixture.

The situation has raised questions among sections of the Ghanaian public over whether players who withdraw from international duty should be expected to provide further clarification when they return to action for their clubs.

Others have defended Semenyo, arguing that his withdrawal was based on a physical problem and that being fit enough to return after treatment does not necessarily mean he was fit to represent Ghana at the time of the qualifiers.

The debate comes at a difficult period for the Black Stars, who suffered defeats to Cote d’Ivoire and The Gambia in their opening two AFCON 2027 qualifying matches.

Semenyo had been in impressive form for Manchester City before the international break, scoring twice in their 5-3 victory over Sunderland.

His performances also earned him a nomination for the PFA Premier League Fans’ Player of the Month award for September.

With his potential return against Liverpool now attracting attention in Ghana, Semenyo’s fitness has become intertwined with wider discussions about player commitment and the challenges facing the Black Stars.