Manchester City striker Erling Håland has welcomed the arrival of Antoine Semenyo in trademark fashion, joking that the Ghana international is already eyeing his prized Golden Boot.
Speaking with a smile after City’s latest training session, the prolific Norwegian forward playfully suggested that Semenyo’s hunger for goals could spark a friendly rivalry in Pep Guardiola’s star-studded attack.
“He is coming for my Golden Boot, so he is not going to pass to me!” Håland joked, drawing laughter from teammates and reporters alike.
Semenyo also responded: “Nahhhh…. don’t do that now!”
Semenyo, who completed a high-profile move to the Premier League champions earlier this month, has made an immediate impression at the Etihad Stadium. The former AFC Bournemouth attacker announced himself in emphatic style, scoring and providing an assist on his debut in City’s 10–1 FA Cup victory over Exeter City, underlining why the club invested heavily in his services.
Håland’s comments, though light-hearted, highlight the fierce competitive mentality within the City squad—one that Guardiola has long encouraged as part of the club’s relentless pursuit of success. The Norwegian striker, who has dominated scoring charts since arriving in England, acknowledged Semenyo’s qualities, praising his direct running, power, and eye for goal.
Semenyo’s versatility across the front line offers Guardiola additional tactical options, allowing City to rotate without losing attacking threat. His ability to stretch defences, press aggressively, and arrive in scoring positions has already caught the attention of his new teammates, including Håland, who knows better than most what it takes to thrive in City’s system.
Despite the playful warning, the underlying message from Håland was one of confidence and excitement. The prospect of another ruthless finisher in the squad could ease the goal-scoring burden on the Norwegian while pushing standards even higher in training and matches.
As City continue to compete on multiple fronts—domestically and in Europe—the budding partnership, and friendly rivalry, between Håland and Semenyo could prove crucial. Whether sharing goals or competing for individual honours, Manchester City now boast yet another attacking weapon capable of deciding matches at the highest level.
