Manchester City have completed the signing of Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, triggering his £65 million release clause and beating competition from Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham.
The move caps a remarkable rise for the 26-year-old Ghana international, who has gone from Bristol City prospect to Premier League standout in just three years. Pep Guardiola has long admired Semenyo, previously describing him as an “extraordinary” player whose energy, confidence and attacking intent make him one of the league’s most dangerous wide forwards.
A Rapid Rise to the Top
Born in London and eligible for Ghana through his father, Semenyo’s journey has been far from straightforward. Rejected by Arsenal, Spurs and Millwall as a youth player, he eventually found his pathway at Bristol City, joining the club in 2017.
Loan spells at Bath City, Newport County and Sunderland helped shape his development before he broke into the Robins’ first team during the 2020–21 season. In January 2023, Bournemouth secured his services for £10m — a deal that now looks like outstanding business.
Since then, Semenyo’s progress has been relentless.
Why Manchester City Wanted Semenyo — and Why Now
Despite Manchester City already boasting multiple wide options, Guardiola pushed hard to bring Semenyo to the Etihad. While his creative numbers are modest compared to players like Jérémy Doku or Rayan Cherki, his end product and goal threat stand out.
Semenyo has scored 10 Premier League goals this season, making him the league’s third-highest scorer, alongside three assists. His 55% shot accuracy ranks among the best in the division, while his 22 goal involvements in the calendar year are the most ever recorded by a Bournemouth player.
Only Erling Haaland and Jean-Philippe Mateta have attempted more shots this season, highlighting Semenyo’s willingness to attack the box. He is also among the league leaders in dribble attempts, offering a more vertical, direct style than City’s traditional wide players.
Former England goalkeeper Rob Green summed it up on BBC Radio 5 Live:
“He gives City something different. He drives forward aggressively, attacks space and brings intensity — exactly what Guardiola is looking for.”
A Perfect Tactical Fit
City’s evolution this season has leaned more towards fast transitions and direct attacking, playing to the strengths of Haaland, Phil Foden and Doku. Semenyo’s pace, two-footed finishing and physicality make him a natural fit for this approach.
City have already scored more goals from fast breaks this season than in the previous two campaigns combined — a trend Semenyo is expected to enhance further.
Guardiola values versatility, and Semenyo’s ability to operate across the frontline gives City added insurance during a congested fixture schedule. Crucially, Ghana’s failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations means his availability will not be disrupted mid-season.
What It Means for Manchester City’s Squad
The arrival of Semenyo could signal a reshuffle. With competition intensifying on the right flank, players such as Savinho or Oscar Bobb may face uncertain futures. Savinho, in particular, has yet to score in the league this season and has previously attracted interest from Tottenham.
From a tactical standpoint, Semenyo’s goal output could also allow Guardiola to reposition Phil Foden into areas where he is most dangerous, reducing Manchester City’s reliance on Haaland, who already has 20 league goals.
A Statement Signing
For Manchester City, Semenyo represents more than just depth — he is a prime-age Premier League scorer, proven, durable and hungry. At £65m, the club believe they have secured value in a market where elite attackers often cost far more.
If Manchester City are to overhaul Arsenal in the title race, adding goals and intensity from wide areas may prove decisive — and Semenyo could be the difference.
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