2 min read
Football Insider

A Star is Born: Antoine Semenyo's Sensational Debut for Manchester City

Antoine Semenyo made an unforgettable impression on his Manchester City teammates with a scintillating display in their 10-1 FA Cup victory over Exeter City. Let's dive into the details of his stellar performance and the buzz surrounding his arrival.

A Star is Born: Antoine Semenyo's Sensational Debut for Manchester City

Antoine Semenyo left a lasting impression on his new Manchester City teammates with his man of the match performance in the Sky Blues 10-1 win over Exeter City in the third round of the FA Cup. The former Bournemouth man grabbed a goal and an assist, prompting Rico Lewis to say the Ghanaian international made a "seamless transition" into Pep Guardiola's side. Semenyo announced himself to the blue side of Manchester with an all-action display in their demolition of the League One outfit, that was capped off just before the hour. The 26-year-old's cross was turned in by Lewis for the Cityzens' fifth goal of the afternoon, before he then scored the sixth himself with a composed finish. It comes at the end of a whirlwind week for the winger, who turned out for the Cherries on Wednesday night just hours before his scheduled medical. Semenyo signed off his time on the south coast with a last minute long-range winner for Bournemouth to pip Tottenham 3-2. The outgoing star followed that up with a classy message of gratitude to the club, as he took out a double page spread in a local newspaper to thank the Bournemouth fans. As perfect as that ending was, Semenyo will be just as happy with the new start at the Etihad, with both his teammates and coaches extolling his virtues after an emphatic win. Lewis shared his and his teammates excitement at Semenyo's recruitment. He said: "It's not a surprise for us because everyone has seen how good of a player he is in the Premier League."Everybody wanted him, there's a reason for that and he's shown that today. It feels like a seamless transition into the team."He's a really good person as well which is another positive."With Pep Guardiola serving a one-game touchline ban for receiving three yellow cards, his assistant Pep Lijnders deputised for him in the dugout and post match press interview. "I think a lot of good performances today," said Ljinders. "A lot of good individual performances. I think when the team plays like that it becomes easier for the individual, but Antoine is settling well."He is a humble guy and we have followed him for a long time, but he brings something to the frontline - what we really want and what we need."He can attack quick, he wants to chase, he is a guy who doesn't stop. I think you see today that he can adapt quite quickly to our style. It's nice to have him with us."Looking for smarter football bets? Get expert previews, data-driven predictions & winning insights with GOAL Tips on Telegram. Join our growing community now!The addition of Semenyo, who boasts 10 goals and three assists in the Premier League in 2025/26, to a bevvy of front line options including Erling Haaland, Phil Foden, Rayan Cherki and Jeremy Doku will send a warning message to the Cityzens' rivals. Guardiola's side have faltered in the league of late however, with three consecutive draws leaving them six points behind Arsenal in top spot. Lijnders, however, believes this group of players has the creativity and experience to produce a turnaround.He said: "The last three games we wanted, of course, we created the chances to score more goals and to win the game. That would have already created a different position in the league."But overall, I think we have a really special group. The amount of experienced players who take lead of the team, the way they guide all the others, the way new players are settling in and the energy. I'm not only talking about the games, but especially training. In the training centre it's special and we are on our way."Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingThe allure of European football, marquee fixtures and late runs into cup competitions will all have been factors in the Ghana international's £62.5m switch to the Etihad. Semenyo has the chance to experience the full gamut straight away, as City prepare for the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi final with Newcastle on Tuesday. That is quickly followed by the Manchester Derby, and a Champions League trip to Bodo/Glimt. 

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Antoine Semenyo's Remarkable Performance

In the FA Cup clash against Exeter City, Antoine Semenyo showcased his talent with a goal and an assist, earning him the man of the match award. His seamless transition into Pep Guardiola's team left teammates and fans in awe, as he played a pivotal role in the Sky Blues' emphatic victory.

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A Week to Remember

Prior to his stellar performance for Manchester City, Semenyo had a whirlwind week that saw him score a last-minute winner for Bournemouth against Tottenham before bidding a heartfelt farewell to the club and its fans. His seamless integration into the City squad speaks volumes about his character and skills.

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Praise from Teammates and Coaches

Rico Lewis and Assistant Manager Pep Lijnders were quick to praise Semenyo's impact on the team. Lewis highlighted the anticipation surrounding Semenyo's recruitment, while Lijnders commended his attacking prowess and adaptability to City's style of play.

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Bright Future Ahead

With 10 goals and three assists already in the Premier League, Semenyo's addition to Manchester City's attacking arsenal, alongside stars like Erling Haaland and Phil Foden, showcases the club's formidable firepower. Despite recent league setbacks, Lijnders remains confident in the team's abilities and spirit to turn the tide.

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The Next Chapter

As Semenyo gears up for key fixtures like the Carabao Cup semi-final and the Manchester Derby, his move to City presents exciting opportunities for European football glory and silverware. With his tenacity and talent, the Ghanaian international is poised to shine on the big stage.

Published on Jan 10, 2026