Antoine Semenyo did not participate with the Bournemouth team in their match against West Ham United.
The forward – considered the tenth-best left winger globally by FourFourTwo presently – has been a pivotal player for the Cherries this season, scoring six goals and assisting three times.
He wasn’t even present as an option on the substitutes’ bench as his team returned to Premier League play this weekend.
Why Antoine Semenyo is missing for Bournemouth v West Ham United
Semenyo joined up with the Ghana national team for the international games, but had to depart due to an issue with his ankle; this problem seemingly worsened following his appearance against Japan.
Bournemouth’s manager, Andoni Iraola, stated during his pre-match press meeting that the 25-year-old was dealing with this problem before the November international games. The issue proved to be significant enough to prevent him from being included in the squad for the match against West Ham.
This absence is a disappointment for those supporting the Cherries and playing Fantasy Premier League, and it may also attract attention from individuals within Merseyside.
His unavailability coincides with the recent BBC Sport report indicating that Semenyo’s contract, signed over the summer, includes a £65m release clause that can be triggered during the initial two weeks of January.
Subsequently, journalist Fabrizio Romano has verified that Liverpool is analyzing the parameters for a potential transfer of the Bournemouth player, even after twice breaking the British transfer record for Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak in the summer transfer window.
According to the BBC, Iraola stated, “It’s November, Antoine is contracted to us, and he will remain with us. You can ask me regarding the market in January, but currently, I have no concern regarding the upcoming transfer window.”
Reports indicate that Bournemouth officials acknowledge their potential lack of power to prevent Semenyo’s departure in January; nevertheless, if this injury leads to an extended period on the sidelines for the winger, it could complicate any potential transfer during the winter window.
Further statements from Iraola are awaited to determine the extent of Semenyo’s absence.
From FourFourTwo’s viewpoint, however, this injury occurs at the most unfortunate moment for both Bournemouth and prospective purchasers like Liverpool.
These upcoming weeks may represent the last time the Cherries have the Ghana international available before a hectic holiday period, and a serious injury could negatively impact any efforts to activate his reported release clause.
All involved parties are hoping that the injury proves minor, allowing the forward to make a speedy return to the field.
Semenyo’s estimated market value is €55m, as indicated by Transfermarkt.
