Former Togo captain Emmanuel Adebayor believes Ghana international Antoine Semenyo has all the qualities required to establish himself at Manchester City, insisting the forward only needs time, confidence and patience to fulfil his enormous potential.
Adebayor, who enjoyed a successful spell at the Premier League champions during his playing career, revealed that Semenyo regularly seeks his advice as he adjusts to life at one of the world’s biggest clubs.
The former Arsenal, Manchester City and Real Madrid striker disclosed that the Black Stars forward often asks for guidance on coping with the pressure and expectations that come with representing Pep Guardiola’s side.
According to Adebayor, his message to Semenyo has remained consistent.
“He always asks me, ‘Big bro, how can I do this? How can I work on this?’ And all I keep telling him is, keep your head on your shoulders and keep working hard,” Adebayor told 3Sports.
The 42-year-old dismissed suggestions that Semenyo lacks the quality to succeed at City, arguing that the club’s extensive recruitment process is proof of the Ghanaian’s ability.
“If they bought you for Man City, a lot of people would say, ‘He’s not good. He’s not good enough for Man City.’ But the club on its own has maybe 50 or 100 meetings before deciding to bring a player in,” he said.
“For me, you have the talent. You just have to believe in your quality and play without the pressure.”
Adebayor acknowledged that Semenyo is still adapting to the demands of a star-studded Manchester City squad but is convinced the Ghanaian will eventually find his feet.
“He’s struggling a little bit, but he will get there. Obviously, he’s new to this Man City squad. He’s new to being with big players,” he explained.
The former African Footballer of the Year runner-up also urged Semenyo to take advantage of the experience around him by learning from the club’s senior players.
“He just has to adapt himself, listen to the older players and the most experienced players in the team to learn from them,” Adebayor added.
“At some point, the tide will turn around and you will be the best and you will be the key player for the team.”
Semenyo is regarded as one of Ghana’s brightest talents, and Adebayor believes the forward has the mentality and talent to become an important player for Manchester City once he fully adapts to his new environment.
