Antoine Semenyo’s Ambitious Move to Manchester City

Antoine Semenyo has rapidly ascended in the football world since his transfer from Bristol City to Bournemouth in January 2023. His performance last season, which included an impressive tally of 13 goals across all competitions, significantly boosted his profile.

Currently, Semenyo has already surpassed double figures this season and is being recognized by City as “one of the Premier League’s most feared forwards.” The 26-year-old is expected to be in contention for Pep Guardiola’s squad and may debut in the upcoming Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Newcastle on Tuesday.

In a statement on the club’s official website, Semenyo expressed his enthusiasm for this new challenge and his excitement about working with a coach who can help him achieve his trophy aspirations: “I am incredibly proud to have joined Manchester City. Over the past decade, I have watched City flourish under Pep Guardiola, establishing themselves as the dominant force in the Premier League and achieving remarkable success in the Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup. The standards set here are unparalleled, and it is a club equipped with world-class players and facilities, under the guidance of one of the greatest managers in Pep.

“I see vast potential for my improvement, and being at this club at this juncture in my career is ideal for me. It is a true privilege to be here, and I am confident that my best football is yet to come. City is in an excellent position, competing in four competitions, and I believe I can contribute significantly to a strong second half of the season. The Etihad is now my new home, and I am eager to play in front of the fans and showcase my abilities.”

Manchester City acquired Semenyo for slightly less than the £65 million release clause stipulated in his contract with Bournemouth. The Cherries also agreed to a 10 percent sell-on clause as part of the deal.

Semenyo was previously linked with Liverpool amid speculation regarding Mohamed Salah’s long-term future and was also a target for Manchester United. Ultimately, he chose to join City, a move that has delighted the club. Director of Football Hugo Viana commented on the significance of the signing: “Antoine is an exciting addition to our football club. He expressed from the outset that he wanted to join City, demonstrating his enthusiasm throughout the process.

“He possesses immense quality—two-footedness, speed, power, and a knack for influencing games—as well as considerable potential for growth and development. I am eager to see the player Antoine will become in the coming weeks, months, and years.

“We consistently monitor talent worldwide, and Antoine was our top choice. He has proven himself in the Premier League and exhibits a humble, hardworking professionalism focused on continual improvement, making him an ideal fit for our team.”

City has praised their new recruit, stating: “Endowed with exceptional natural talent, remarkable speed, and a keen eye for goal, Antoine Semenyo embodies the qualities needed to excel at City.

“His diverse skill set is tailored to thrive in the exciting, attacking football that defines Pep Guardiola’s era at City. Additionally, Semenyo arrives at the Etihad with substantial top-flight experience, having excelled at Bournemouth over the past three years. He also brings an impressive international pedigree, with 32 senior caps for Ghana as he prepares to compete against England in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup.

As Semenyo embarks on this new chapter, he has significant club-level silverware to pursue, with City still in contention for the Premier League, Champions League, Carabao Cup, and FA Cup.