Faith before football – Antoine Semenyo on his relationship with God

Manchester City footballer in a blue kit running on the pitch during a match.

By Jamaldeen Wiayuka August 3, 2026

Ghana international Antoine Semenyo has spoken candidly about the central role his Christian faith plays in both his football career and personal life, saying his relationship with God will always come before the game.

The forward, who recently featured in his club’s pre-season fixture against Inter Milan, said his faith has become the foundation of his journey, shaping both his mindset and performances on the pitch.

Semenyo revealed that he was baptised by a local pastor last December, describing it as a significant milestone after years of waiting for the right opportunity because of the demands of professional football.

“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,” he told the BBC.

“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.”

The 25-year-old, who has several faith-inspired tattoos, also explained that prayer forms an important part of his match-day preparation. Ahead of games, he joins teammates and fellow Christians, including England defender Marc Guehi and Belgium winger Jeremy Doku, for prayer sessions at the team hotel.

According to Semenyo, those moments of worship and reflection give the players “maximum strength” and help them approach matches with confidence and peace of mind.

Asked whether faith takes priority over football, the Ghana international was unequivocal.

“Yeah, 100%. I wouldn’t be here without him [God], so there is always going to be faith and football after,” he said.

Semenyo believes his footballing ability is a gift from God and says he feels a responsibility to honour that gift by giving his best every time he steps onto the pitch.

“I think God gave me the talent to be a footballer, he gave me all the skills, he gave the mindset and the mentality, so I owe it to him to perform and maximise his words to the world.”

The forward continues to impress at club level ahead of the new season. He recently produced an assist in a pre-season friendly against Inter Milan, offering another reminder of his growing influence as he prepares for the challenges of the upcoming campaign.