In order to maximize forward Antoine Semenyo’s effect on the national team, former Ghanaian international Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu has directly pleaded with Black Stars coach Otto Addo to use Semenyo on the wing rather than as a central striker.
Speaking on Akoma FM in Kumasi, Agyemang-Badu said that Ghana is playing the Manchester City player out of position. “Semenyo is not a natural number 9, and we should stop forcing him into that role,” the former midfielder said. “He is more effective on the wings, just as Manchester City are currently using him.”
His comments come as Semenyo enjoys a spectacular start to his career at Manchester City. Since his high-profile £65 million move from Bournemouth in January, the 25-year-old has scored three goals and provided one assist in his first four appearances, quickly becoming a key player for Pep Guardiola’s side.
Agyemang-Badu emphasized that Semenyo’s current form and preferred role at his club should dictate his position for Ghana, especially with the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon. “He is our poster boy at the moment, and the coach must play him in his preferred position so we can get the very best out of him,” Agyemang-Badu stressed.
“Playing Semenyo on the wings, rather than as a central striker, will allow him to reach his full potential and give the Black Stars an attacking edge in critical matches.”
The former Udinese star’s contribution adds his respected voice to the tactical conversation around the Black Stars, arguing that maximizing Semenyo’s role could be essential to Ghana’s success as they prepare for the global championship in North America.
