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Ghana have suffered a major setback ahead of their doubleheader against Somalia, with forward Antoine Semenyo expected to miss both matches after sustaining a knee injury while playing for Manchester City.
The 26-year-old suffered a left knee collateral ligament injury during Manchester City’s English Premier League match against Ipswich on Saturday.
Manchester City coach Enzo Maresca confirmed that Semenyo could be sidelined for approximately eight weeks, ruling him out of Ghana’s upcoming international fixtures.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League match against AEK Athens, Maresca provided an update on the Ghanaian forward’s condition.
“The only one that will be out for probably eight weeks is Antoine [Semenyo],” he said.
Maresca explained that the initial assessment had raised concerns about a potentially more serious injury, but subsequent scans brought some relief.
“In the first moment we expected a worse injury. After yesterday’s scan we feel much better because it’s not so big like we expected. It will be eight weeks,” he added.
The Manchester City coach stressed that the immediate priority was ensuring the forward recovered properly before returning to action.
“Now the most important thing is recovery. When he is back in December it will be like a new player. Collateral. It’s not muscle,” Maresca said.
Semenyo’s absence a setback for Ghana
Semenyo’s expected absence will be a concern for Ghana as the Black Stars prepare for their two matches against Somalia on November 11 and four days later.
The forward’s pace, attacking movement and ability to contribute goals have made him an important option for both club and country.
His injury also continues a difficult spell with fitness issues, having missed Ghana’s September–October Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers because of an ankle problem.
The latest setback means Ghana could once again have to adjust their attacking plans as they prepare for the Somalia fixtures.
Impressive start to the season
Despite the injury, Semenyo has made a strong contribution for Manchester City this season, recording five goal contributions in six starts, according to the supplied report.
His performances have highlighted his value in attack, making his potential absence an important consideration for both Manchester City and Ghana.
With an estimated recovery period of eight weeks, his return is expected around December, although his actual comeback will depend on his rehabilitation and medical assessment.
For Ghana, attention will now turn to the available attacking options ahead of the Somalia doubleheader, as the Black Stars look to manage the setback and prepare for the upcoming fixtures.
