Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed his satisfaction with Ghanaian forward Antoine Semenyo following the winger’s impressive debut in the FA Cup, where City thrashed Exeter City 10–1.
Semenyo not only scored but also provided an assist in his first appearance for the club, earning the Man of the Match award as City advanced comfortably in the oldest domestic cup competition.
The 26-year-old is expected to make his second appearance for City in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final clash with Newcastle United on Tuesday at St James’ Park.
Ahead of the game, Guardiola praised Semenyo’s attitude and work ethic, describing him as “a nice guy” and encouraging him to continue his fine form.
“The impression is what he has done in Bournemouth over many years; he is a nice guy,” Guardiola said at his pre-match press conference. “And he showed in a few actions what he showed at Bournemouth, and hopefully he can continue to do it here.”
Semenyo has been confirmed eligible to feature against the Magpies following a Carabao Cup rule change (Rule 6.4) introduced at the start of the season. The new regulation allows players who have already played in the competition for another club to appear for their new team, provided the transfer is completed before the end of the winter window and ahead of the relevant match.
The Ghanaian previously appeared in the competition with Bournemouth earlier this season, but the updated rule now permits him to represent Manchester City in the semi-final first leg, giving Guardiola another attacking option as the Citizens bid for silverware.
