Antoine Semenyo’s high-profile move from AFC Bournemouth to Manchester City has sparked discussion far beyond football, reaching the floor of the UK Parliament.
The Ghanaian forward completed his transfer to the Premier League champions earlier in January 2026, ending a productive spell on the south coast where he established himself as one of Bournemouth’s standout performers.
Semenyo joined Manchester City during the January transfer window in a deal reported to be worth £65 million, signing a long-term contract with Pep Guardiola’s side.
His departure marked the end of a two-and-a-half-year stay at Bournemouth, where he became a fan favourite through his performances, work ethic and conduct off the pitch.
Speaking on Thursday, January 15, 2026, during proceedings in the UK Parliament, Labour MP for Bournemouth East, Tom Hayes, cited Semenyo while addressing the importance of positive role models in sport and society.
Hayes praised the forward’s impact at the club, describing him as “a superstar on the pitch and a gentleman off it.”
“AFC Bournemouth has just said goodbye to Antoine Semenyo. He’s been a superstar on the pitch and a gentleman off it. Taking out a four-page ad in the Bournemouth Echo to thank fans for the memories as he sadly went to Manchester City,” he said.
The MP referenced Semenyo’s decision to take out a four-page advertisement in the Bournemouth Echo to thank fans following his exit, calling it a reflection of the respect he earned during his time at the club.
Hayes went on to argue that communities need more players like Semenyo, using his example to support his call for raising the minimum social media age to 16.
“In Bournemouth, we need more players like him. That means getting kids outdoors, off their phones. Which is why I’m backing raising the minimum social media age to sixteen,” he added.
