Semenyo Shines for City – Winners and Losers of Transfer

Published: 14 January 2026 | The English Chronicle Desk | The English Chronicle Online

Antoine Semenyo has quickly adapted to life at Manchester City, immediately justifying the £62.5m fee paid to Bournemouth for his signature. The Ghanaian forward made an instant impression in the FA Cup third round, scoring and assisting during City’s memorable 10-1 demolition of League One side Exeter City. His seamless transition continued in the Carabao Cup semi-final against holders Newcastle, where he opened the scoring inside the intense atmosphere of St James’ Park. Although a second goal was later ruled out by VAR, Semenyo’s influence was undeniable as City secured a 2-0 victory, demonstrating his ability to shine under pressure and in high-stakes matches.

Describing himself as “powerful, quick and strong” and “clinical” in front of goal, Semenyo brings a new dimension to City’s front line. His arrival could prove crucial in the Premier League title race and in City’s pursuit of multiple trophies this season. “I was in the right area to tap it in and we were victorious, so I am happy,” Semenyo said after the Newcastle game. “Everyone is confident and wanting to achieve the best. They helped with my confidence and made me feel welcome.” The 26-year-old is expected to make his Premier League debut in the high-profile Manchester derby at Old Trafford, adding further anticipation for City fans and neutrals alike.

For Manchester City, Semenyo’s arrival eases the goalscoring burden that has largely fallen on Erling Haaland this season. The Norwegian striker has netted 39 goals in 34 appearances for club and country but has recently endured a scoring drought, managing just one goal in his past six games and last scoring from open play on 20 December against West Ham. Semenyo, who thrives on the right wing, already boasts ten Premier League goals this season, placing him third in the top-flight scoring charts behind Haaland and Brentford’s Igor Thiago. His presence not only offers a new outlet for goals but also provides a reliable partner in attack capable of sharing the responsibility that has weighed heavily on Haaland.

Versatility is another advantage Semenyo brings to City. Able to operate anywhere across the front three, he provides Guardiola with tactical flexibility, allowing the manager to rotate players or adapt formations mid-game. Semenyo’s speed, direct running, and composure in front of goal have already been displayed, highlighted by a brilliant strike in the chaotic 4-4 draw against United at Old Trafford. City captain Bernardo Silva praised his integration, saying, “He looks not just a very good player but also a very good guy, which fits right in with the team. He is a fantastic guy who wants to help us. Hopefully he can keep going.”

Bournemouth, despite losing another star player, have benefited financially from the transfer. Having acquired Semenyo for £10m from Championship side Bristol City three years ago, the south coast club made a significant profit. The fee adds to the roughly £250m raised since last summer through player sales, allowing manager Andoni Iraola to reinvest in strengthening the squad. However, the departure of Semenyo, along with Dean Huijsen, Illia Zabarnyi, Milos Kerkez, and Dango Ouattara, highlights Bournemouth’s growing struggle to retain top talent amid Premier League pressure, presenting challenges in maintaining squad depth and continuity.

Manchester United, long linked with Semenyo, are arguably the biggest losers in this transfer window. Not only did they miss out on signing the talented forward, but the club has also undergone managerial upheaval, sacking Ruben Amorim and appointing former midfielder Michael Carrick as interim boss. The Red Devils will face Semenyo at Old Trafford this weekend, now as an opposition player, with the forward already showing his ability to trouble top-flight defenses. Arsenal, currently six points clear at the Premier League summit, will also be monitoring developments nervously. City’s offensive reinforcement strengthens one of their main title challengers, making the title race even more competitive.

Semenyo’s arrival may also impact current City players. With an abundance of talent on the right wing, Oscar Bobb and Savinho could find opportunities limited. Bobb, recovering from a leg fracture and now sidelined again, has been linked with a Bundesliga move to Borussia Dortmund, while Savinho, who has struggled for form, could face a departure to ensure regular playing time. Guardiola has stressed that attacking players are judged by their output, yet with Semenyo thriving, the competition for starting positions intensifies.

Early performances suggest Semenyo could become a key figure in Manchester City’s quest for trophies this season, offering versatility, goals, and fresh energy in attack. Meanwhile, his signing reshapes Premier League dynamics, benefiting City and creating ripples for rivals, from Bournemouth’s reinvestment strategy to Manchester United’s transfer frustrations. His ability to seamlessly integrate into Guardiola’s squad so early on indicates that City’s investment could pay dividends immediately and in the months to come.