Former France international and World Cup winner Marcel Desailly has tipped Antoine Semenyo to be one of Ghana’s standout performers at the 2026 FIFA World Cup but has warned the Manchester City forward against allowing his growing reputation to overshadow the collective goals of the Black Stars.

Semenyo heads into the tournament as one of Ghana’s most influential players following his rapid rise in European football and a high-profile move to Premier League champions Manchester City.

With expectations rising ahead of the global showpiece in the United States, Canada and Mexico, Desailly believes the versatile attacker possesses the qualities needed to inspire Ghana in crucial moments.

Speaking to Flashscore, the former Chelsea defender described Semenyo as the type of player capable of turning games around through moments of individual brilliance.

“He’s that individual player that when you are facing challenges, with one move, one run, he can allow Ghana to stay in the game,” Desailly said.

Despite his praise, the former France captain stressed that Semenyo must remain disciplined and humble, insisting that no player should place himself above the national team regardless of his club status.

“So this is what we are expecting from him. Be disciplined. Don’t take advantage because you are a Manchester City player, you are a star, you are arriving in Ghana, and you are stronger than the entity and the team. You understand?”

Desailly emphasized that Semenyo’s influence should be measured not only by goals and assists but also by his ability to lift the team during difficult moments.

“So he really needs to come in with humility and be that top player that can make the difference. The issue is he needs to stay disciplined even though he’s a Manchester City player and one of the stars. We need him to be one of the key players who can allow them, when they are in a difficult situation, to rise a little bit.”

The 1998 World Cup winner also acknowledged the pressure surrounding the Black Stars as they prepare for their fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

Ghana enters the World Cup eager to restore pride after failing to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, a setback that has intensified scrutiny of the national team.

According to Desailly, the disappointment has increased expectations among supporters while motivating players determined to make a statement on the world stage.

“They’ve not qualified for the African Cup of Nations, so the expectation in Ghana is very high, and also for the players, they are eager to be part of an international competition.”

Semenyo is expected to spearhead Ghana’s attacking ambitions as the Black Stars navigate a challenging Group L campaign.

Ghana will begin its World Cup journey against Panama at BMO Field on June 17 before taking on England at Gillette Stadium on June 23. The Black Stars will conclude their group-stage campaign against Croatia on June 27.

Under head coach Carlos Queiroz, Ghana will be aiming to advance beyond the group stage and reach the knockout rounds for the first time since their historic quarter-final run at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.