Antoine Semenyo’s First Days at Manchester City: A Bright Start and Big Expectations

When Antoine Semenyo joined Manchester City in early January, few expected him to draw so much attention so quickly. His transfer was one of the biggest stories of the winter window, and by his second match he had already performed well in both cup competitions. It was a promising start that City fans will hope continues throughout the season.

Early Arrival and Transfer Details

The transfer was not simple speculation. Manchester City secured Semenyo from Bournemouth for a fee around £62.5 million to £65 million on a five-and-a-half year deal, a serious investment underlining Pep Guardiola’s belief in the winger’s potential. The 26-year-old, who grew up in London and impressed across the south coast with his dynamism and goal threat, had been a target for other big clubs before choosing City. For Semenyo, the chance to test himself in a team with lofty ambitions seemed to be the perfect next step.

Debut Day Drama

By the time his shirt was officially unveiled with the number 42 on the back, City were already thinking about deep runs in multiple competitions. Semenyo’s debut came sooner than many expected, and what followed was nothing short of sensational. On 10 January, just a day after signing, he was handed a start in the FA Cup third round. Facing Exeter City, a lower-division team, might not have been the sternest test, but City’s 10-1 win was unforgettable for more than just the scoreline.

In that match he didn’t just settle in, he starred. He scored and provided an assist, an impressive return that instantly drew comparisons with club greats who have had explosive starts at the Etihad. The sheer scale of the victory was remarkable, with City hitting double figures in a competitive game for the first time in decades, but Semenyo’s personal contribution ensured all eyes were on him. Guardiola and his coaching staff made it clear they trusted Semenyo to help deliver results right away.

Cup Semi-Final Spotlight

If his debut was impressive, his next outing raised eyebrows again, this time for all the right reasons and some controversy too. On 13 January, City travelled to St James’ Park for the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final against Newcastle United. With the tie finely poised, Semenyo opened the scoring eight minutes after half-time, sending the travelling supporters into raptures. His movement and finish under intense pressure echoed the instincts of a player comfortable at this level.

The night was dramatic in more ways than one. Semenyo appeared to score a second goal with a clever back-heeled finish, only for it to be ruled out after a lengthy VAR review on a marginal offside call. The decision sparked debate among fans and commentators up and down the country, but even without the extra goal, City left Tyneside with a 2-0 advantage thanks to a stoppage-time strike from Rayan Cherki. For Semenyo, the virtue of scoring in both of his first two appearances for City underlined just how quickly he had adapted.

A Promising Start

One unusual subplot to his early Manchester City days was his eligibility to play in the League Cup. In previous seasons, players who had already featured in the competition for another club would be cup-tied, but a recent rule change meant Semenyo could line up against Newcastle despite having played in the same tournament with Bournemouth earlier in the season. That twist added another layer to his early journey, and even the opposing manager admitted the rule change was something of a talking point ahead of the match.

City fans witnessed a mix of joy and frustration in that semi-final first leg, but overall there was plenty to be encouraged about. Semenyo’s place in the team felt earned, not given, and he has already shown he can contribute in big moments. There’s a growing sense that he could be a key piece in City’s push for silverware across the domestic cups and beyond.

Back in south coast memories, Bournemouth supporters remember Semenyo’s influence too. He signed off from the club with a dramatic late winning goal against Tottenham Hotspur on his birthday, a moment that summed up his knack for rising to big occasions. Now, at the Etihad Stadium, he faces a fresh set of expectations but has made it clear he relishes the challenge.

There’s still a long way to go in the season and many tougher tests ahead for Manchester City. Semenyo’s early performances in cup ties provide a snapshot of what he might bring to the team. Whether in the Premier League grind or high-pressure knockout fixtures, his arrival has already sparked conversation and delivered tangible contributions. As he settles into life in Manchester and builds understanding with his new teammates, the fans will hope this hot start is just the beginning. With every touch and run in sky blue, Semenyo is shaping himself into a player City supporters want to see for years to come.