Ghana international Antoine Semenyo has spoken candidly about the importance of his Christian faith, describing his relationship with God as the driving force behind both his football career and personal life.
The Manchester City forward revealed that his faith has grown significantly in recent years, culminating in his baptism last December—an experience he considers one of the most meaningful moments of his life.
Although his demanding football schedule had delayed the occasion, Semenyo said he embraced the opportunity as soon as it came.
“I know that I am obviously walking with God at the moment, and I want to maximise my faith as much as I can, so practising gives me the opportunity to do that.”
“When I got the opportunity, I made sure I took it. I am so happy I have done it and I am in the walk of faith now and it’s been amazing,” he told the BBC.
The 26-year-old also disclosed that prayer is an essential part of his matchday routine. He regularly joins fellow footballers, including Marc Guéhi and Jérémy Doku, in prayer sessions at the team hotel before games, saying the moments strengthen their belief and prepare them mentally for competition.
Asked whether football comes before his faith, Semenyo offered an unequivocal answer.
“Yeah, 100%. I wouldn’t be here without Him [God], so there is always going to be faith and football after,” he said.
The Black Stars attacker believes his footballing ability is a gift from God and says he has a responsibility to make the most of it.
“I think God gave me the talent to be a footballer. He gave me all the skills, He gave me the mindset and the mentality, so I owe it to Him to perform and maximise His words to the world.”
Semenyo has enjoyed a remarkable rise in recent years. After scoring 21 goals for club and country during the 2025/26 season, he earned a £65 million move from Bournemouth to Manchester City in January. Since arriving at the Etihad Stadium, he has won the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, while also making a bright start to pre-season under new manager Enzo Maresca, registering an assist against Inter Milan.
