Togo football icon Emmanuel Adebayor has disclosed that he played a major role in persuading Auxerre defender Marvin Senaya to commit his international future to Ghana instead of Togo.
The versatile defender, who was eligible to represent both nations through his family background, found himself at the centre of an international tug-of-war after receiving invitations from Ghana and Togo in March 2026.
Senaya eventually opted to represent the Black Stars and went on to feature in all four of Ghana’s matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he established himself as an important member of Carlos Queiroz’s squad.
Speaking to 3Sports, Adebayor revealed that he personally advised the 25-year-old to accept Ghana’s offer, believing it presented a unique opportunity that could define his international career.
“I was the one who made the decision for him, actually,” Adebayor said.
“I told him there is no other choice. This is the only chance you have because this World Cup can be your major tournament in your life.”
The former Arsenal, Manchester City and Real Madrid striker expressed delight with Senaya’s decision, saying the defender justified his faith with his performances in Ghana colours.
“I was happy for him. Ghanaians were proud of him,” Adebayor added.
Senaya’s impressive World Cup campaign was, however, cut short after he suffered an injury during Ghana’s Round of 32 defeat to Colombia at Kansas City Stadium on July 3.
The Auxerre defender has since been working his way back to full fitness and has been making encouraging progress in rehabilitation, recently returning to gym-based training as he continues strengthening his injured right leg.
While Senaya continues his recovery, the Black Stars have already assembled in Accra ahead of a crucial international window. Ghana will begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with an away clash against Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on September 24 before hosting The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium three days later.
The Black Stars will round off the international break with a high-profile friendly against Morocco in Tangier on October 4, although Senaya remains a doubt as he continues his recovery from injury.
