BY NADIA NTIAMOAH
Ghana international Antoine Semenyo has returned to Manchester City to begin preparations for the 2026/27 season, turning his attention back to club football following his involvement with the Black Stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 26-year-old reported to the City Football Academy on Monday after being granted an extended break following the campaign at the global tournament.
Semenyo featured in all four Ghana’s matches at the World Cup before the Black Stars were eliminated by Colombia in the knockout stage, bringing an end to a campaign in which the four-time African champions had progressed beyond the group phase.
His return to Manchester marks the beginning of another important chapter for the forward, who will be hoping to build on the impact he made during his first six months at the club.
Semenyo returned alongside manager Enzo Maresca, members of the coaching staff and the rest of City’s first-team squad as preparations intensified ahead of the Premier League champions’ pre-season tour of Asia.
The Ghanaian joined Manchester City midway through last season and quickly established himself as an important member of the squad.
His arrival added further attacking options to the team, and he went on to contribute to a successful domestic campaign in which City lifted both the Carabao Cup and FA Cup.
One of the defining moments of Semenyo’s first season at the Etihad came in the FA Cup final against Chelsea, when he found the net to help Manchester City secure the trophy.
His performances represented another significant step in a career that has seen him develop into one of the leading attacking players.
Semenyo had previously established his reputation in English football before making the move to Manchester City, with his combination of pace, strength and direct attacking play eventually earning him an opportunity with the Premier League giants.
His attention subsequently shifted to international football as Ghana competed at the expanded 2026 World Cup.
The Black Stars progressed from Group L after beating Panama, drawing with England and losing to Croatia before advancing to the knockout stage, where Colombia ended their campaign.
With his World Cup commitments now behind him, Semenyo will be expected to play an important role in Manchester City’s preparations for the new domestic season.
City are scheduled to leave for Hong Kong on Tuesday as part of their Asian pre-season programme.
They are expected to face Inter before travelling to South Korea for further friendly matches against a K League All-Stars XI and Atlético Madrid.
