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Ghana international Antoine Semenyo made an eye-catching start to his Manchester City career, providing an assist for Rico Lewis and scoring a goal on his debut as the champions cruised to a 8-0 victory over Exeter City in their FA Cup tie at the Etihad Stadium.
Semenyo, who completed his £65 million move from Bournemouth on January 9, was handed a place in City’s starting lineup and quickly justified Pep Guardiola’s faith with a lively and confident performance.
The 26-year-old winger, wearing the No. 42 jersey, first announced himself by setting up Rico Lewis with a precise pass to register his maiden assist in City colours before scoring his first goal for the club in the 54th minute.
He was withdrawn in the 64th minute to a warm ovation from the Etihad crowd, having played a decisive role in City’s dominant display as they comfortably progressed to the next round of the FA Cup.
Semenyo’s impact was reflected in the numbers from his debut outing. He completed 38 of his 41 passes, won possession three times, created two clear chances, registered one assist and converted one of his two shots on target, underlining an efficient and composed performance in City colours.
Semenyo’s signing represents a record sale for Bournemouth, with City triggering his release clause in a deal worth around £65 million. He has signed a contract running until 2031, with the No. 42 shirt previously worn by club legend Yaya Touré.
Reacting to his debut, Semenyo said he was proud to join a club with “world-class players, world-class facilities and one of the greatest managers ever,” adding that his best football is still to come.
The former Bournemouth forward arrived after an impressive spell on the south coast, scoring 10 Premier League goals this season and netting four times in his final six appearances, including a stoppage-time winner against Tottenham.
With Manchester City still competing on multiple fronts this season, Semenyo believes he can make an immediate impact as Pep Guardiola’s side push for silverware in the second half of the campaign.
