Pep Guardiola is looking to channel the raw passion and excitement of new signing Antoine Semenyo as Manchester City launch their assault on an unprecedented quadruple this season.
A Dream Move and Immediate Ambition
The Ghana international's transfer from Bournemouth was officially confirmed on Friday 09 January 2026, with the deal worth an initial £62.5 million. Semenyo arrives at a pivotal moment for the club, which remains in contention for every major honour but has recently stuttered with a series of draws amid an injury crisis.
The 26-year-old winger did not hide his delight at the move, immediately setting his sights on the highest prizes. "I'm over the moon it's done," Semenyo said. "I'm looking forward to meeting the boys and competing at the highest level and hopefully winning all four competitions."
He also highlighted a lifelong ambition, stating: "As a kid you always dream of playing in the Champions League. It will be a dream of mine to hear the music, to walk out on the pitch. I'm so excited."
Guardiola Praises a Forged Character
Manager Pep Guardiola believes the player's unconventional journey to the top, which included loan spells at clubs like Bath City, Newport, and Sunderland before his breakthroughs at Bristol City and Bournemouth, has forged a resilient character.
"Sometimes you come up bright and early, sometimes you need the setbacks," Guardiola explained. "Those difficulties make every player, not just Antoine, the players they are. He had to be stubborn, to dig in, dig in, and in the end, look what happened."
The City boss is particularly eager to utilise the forward's fresh hunger for elite European football. "This enthusiasm, this passion to play European competitions that he didn't play before, is extraordinary. We have to take it. Everything is about passion, love in life and he will bring that to us," Guardiola added.
FA Cup Debut and Squad Challenges
Semenyo is set for a potential immediate debut, having been included in the squad for Manchester City's FA Cup third-round tie against League One Exeter on Saturday.
With a lengthy injury list and several players away on international duty, Guardiola admitted his options for rotation are limited. He emphasised the need to return to winning ways after three consecutive draws, reducing opportunities for academy players.
"A few of them, but not much," Guardiola said when asked about fielding youngsters. "We have to come back to winning games. The FA Cup is the FA Cup." He also expressed a rare regret about not using the academy more, citing concerns over the competitive environment in youth football compared to the intense demands of the first team.
The integration of Antoine Semenyo's drive and determination now becomes a fascinating subplot in Manchester City's pursuit of glory on all fronts this season.
