Ghana have strengthened their defensive options after AJ Auxerre right-back Marvin Senaya officially joined the Black Stars training camp in Vienna, Austria, on Monday, ending a long-running tug-of-war with Togo over his international future.
The 25-year-old’s arrival comes ahead of Ghana’s international friendlies against Austria on 27 March and Germany on 30 March, as the Black Stars begin preparations for the upcoming FIFA window.
Senaya’s decision marks a clear choice following a dual call-up that had generated intense debate across West Africa.
Togo’s head coach Patrice Neveu had previously included Senaya in the Sparrow Hawks’ squad for matches against Guinea and Niger, claiming the player had given a verbal commitment to represent the West African nation.
Senaya’s ties to Togo are personal as he is the son of former Togolese international Yao Mawuko Senaya.
However, the Ghana Football Association successfully persuaded the Ligue 1 defender to join the Black Stars instead, drawing on his maternal Ghanaian roots.
Taking to social media shortly after arriving in camp, Senaya expressed his feelings: he shared “pride and joy” at receiving his maiden invitation to the Ghana national team, signaling his readiness to contribute to the four-time African champions.
With 20 appearances and one goal for AJ Auxerre this season, the right-back is expected to add depth to Ghana’s defensive line.
His participation in today’s first full training session under head coach Otto Addo and his technical staff will mark the start of his integration into the senior setup.
Senaya’s case reflects the challenges faced by dual-nationality players in Africa, who often navigate decisions shaped by cultural heritage, family ties, and competitive opportunities.
For Togo, the decision represents a missed chance to secure a promising talent, though Neveu has remained patient throughout the process.
Ghana’s 26-man squad for the friendlies emphasizes the federation’s intent to integrate young talent like Senaya into the senior team while maintaining a competitive edge ahead of major tournaments.
With his allegiance now confirmed, the defender’s presence in Vienna signals a new chapter for the Black Stars’ defensive options, while ending speculation about his international future.
