Former Ghana international Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu has called on Black Stars head coach Otto Addo to deploy Antoine Semenyo on the wings rather than as a central striker, insisting the change would significantly boost the national team’s attacking threat.
Speaking on Kumasi-based Akoma FM, Agyemang-Badu argued that Semenyo is being used out of position for Ghana and warned against forcing him into a role that does not suit his strengths.
“Semenyo is not a natural number nine, and we should stop forcing him to play there,” the former midfielder stated. “He is far more effective on the wings, just as Manchester City are currently using him.”
The comments come amid Semenyo’s impressive start to life at Manchester City following his £65 million move from Bournemouth in January. The 25-year-old forward has hit the ground running, scoring three goals and providing one assist in his first four appearances to quickly establish himself as a key figure under Pep Guardiola.
Agyemang-Badu stressed that Semenyo’s club form and preferred role should guide how he is deployed for the Black Stars, especially with the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching.
“He is our poster boy at the moment, and the coach must play him in his preferred position if we want to get the best out of him,” he said.
According to the former Udinese midfielder, keeping Semenyo on the flanks would allow him to express himself fully and give Ghana a sharper attacking edge in crucial matches.
Agyemang-Badu’s intervention adds weight to the ongoing tactical debate surrounding the Black Stars, with his views highlighting how maximizing Semenyo’s strengths could be key to Ghana’s ambitions as they prepare for the World Cup in North America.
