Antoine Semenyo is a professional footballer who currently plays as a forward for Premier League club Manchester City and the Ghana national team. Born in London on January 7, 2000, Semenyo rose to prominence as a dynamic attacker for AFC Bournemouth before completing a high-profile £64 million transfer to Manchester City in January 2026. On February 11, 2026, he made history by becoming the first Ghanaian player to score 13 goals in a single Premier League season, surpassing the long-standing record held by Tony Yeboah. Known for his explosive pace, physical power, and versatility across the front line, the 26-year-old has established himself as one of the most clinical wingers in European football, wearing the number 42 shirt for the Citizens under manager Pep Guardiola.
Early Career and Bristol City Roots
Antoine Semenyo’s professional journey began in the youth ranks of Bristol City, where his physical attributes and raw talent were evident from a young age. His path to the top was not linear, involving several developmental loan spells that shaped his resilience.
Between 2018 and 2020, Semenyo gained vital experience at Bath City, Newport County, and Sunderland. These stints in the lower leagues of English football allowed him to refine his hold-up play and adapt to the physicality of senior men’s football before returning to become a mainstay in the Bristol City first team.
During the 2021–22 Championship season, Semenyo enjoyed a true breakout, registering 8 goals and 12 assists. His performances earned him the Bristol City Young Player of the Year award and attracted the attention of Premier League scouts, ultimately leading to his move to the top flight.
Breakthrough at AFC Bournemouth
In January 2023, Semenyo transitioned to the Premier League by signing with AFC Bournemouth. It was here, under the tactical guidance of Andoni Iraola, that he transformed from a promising talent into a consistent top-flight threat.
Performance Under Andoni Iraola
Semenyo became an integral part of Bournemouth’s high-intensity pressing system. By the 2024–25 season, he achieved a personal best of 11 league goals, helping the Cherries secure a stable mid-table position and proving he could perform against the league’s “Big Six.”
The Final Bournemouth Goal
Semenyo’s final act for Bournemouth was a dramatic last-minute winner in a 3–2 victory against Tottenham Hotspur on January 7, 2026. This goal served as a fitting farewell to the Vitality Stadium faithful before his record-breaking move to Manchester.
Manchester City and the £64m Move
On January 9, 2026, Manchester City confirmed the signing of Antoine Semenyo for a fee reported at £64 million ($130 million). The five-and-a-half-year contract reflected his status as one of the most valuable attackers in the winter transfer window.
Impactful Debut vs. Exeter
Semenyo made an immediate impact, scoring and assisting on his debut in a 10–1 FA Cup victory over Exeter City. His ability to integrate into Pep Guardiola’s complex tactical setup almost instantly surprised many analysts and justified the significant investment.
Breaking Tony Yeboah’s Record
In February 2026, just weeks after his arrival, Semenyo scored his 13th goal of the season against Fulham. This strike etched his name into the history books as the prolific Ghanaian in a single Premier League campaign, breaking a record that had stood for three decades.
Style of Play and Tactical Versatility
Semenyo is often described as a “modern forward” due to his ability to play effectively as a left winger, right winger, or central striker. His physical profile—standing 185 cm tall with significant muscle mass—makes him a nightmare for traditional full-backs.
Two-Footed Finishing: While naturally right-footed, Semenyo is exceptionally proficient with his left, preventing defenders from showing him onto a “weaker” side.
Blindside Pressing: A hallmark of his game is his “blindside” movement, where he approaches defenders from their peripheral vision to intercept passes and trigger counter-attacks.
Aerial Prowess: Despite playing primarily on the wing, his 95th percentile ranking in aerial duels won makes him a target for cross-field diagonals and set pieces.
International Career with Ghana
Representing the Black Stars, Semenyo has become a vital component of Ghana’s attacking arsenal since his debut in May 2022. He has earned over 30 caps and participated in major tournaments, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2023 AFCON.
In 2026, he is considered the “darling boy” of Ghanaian football. His success in the Premier League has inspired a new generation of West African talent, and he is currently a frontrunner for the African Footballer of the Year award following his record-breaking season in England.
Practical Information for Fans and Scouts
For those following Semenyo’s career in 2026, here are the essential details regarding his current status and how to watch him play.
Current Contract and Value
Current Team: Manchester City
Shirt Number: 42
Contract Expiry: June 30, 2031
Market Value: Estimated at €65M+
Weekly Wage: Reported at £150,000
How to Watch
Premier League: Manchester City matches are broadcast globally on platforms like Sky Sports, TNT Sports (UK), and NBC Sports (USA).
Stadium Visits: Tickets for the Etihad Stadium range from £45 to £100 for standard Premier League fixtures, though high-demand games against rivals like Arsenal or Liverpool can be significantly higher on resale markets.
FAQs
Who does Antoine Semenyo play for in 2026?
As of 2026, Antoine Semenyo plays for Manchester City in the Premier League and the Ghana national team.
How much did Manchester City pay for Semenyo?
Manchester City signed Semenyo from Bournemouth in January 2026 for a reported fee of £64 million.
What record did Semenyo break in 2026?
He became the highest-scoring Ghanaian in a single Premier League season, reaching 13 goals and surpassing Tony Yeboah’s 30-year-old record.
What is Antoine Semenyo’s preferred position?
Semenyo is a versatile forward who primarily plays as a left winger, but he is equally comfortable on the right or as a central striker.
How old is Antoine Semenyo?
Born on January 7, 2000, Antoine Semenyo is 26 years old in 2026.
What shirt number does Semenyo wear at Manchester City?
He wears the number 42 shirt for Manchester City.
Is Antoine Semenyo two-footed?
Yes, he is highly regarded for his ability to use both feet effectively, which allows him to shoot and cross with precision from either flank.
How many goals has Semenyo scored for Ghana?
As of early 2026, Semenyo has scored 3 goals in 32 appearances for the Black Stars, with his influence on the team’s overall play being highly praised.
Where was Antoine Semenyo born?
He was born in Chelsea, London, but represents Ghana through his parentage.
Was Semenyo ever in the EFL Championship?
Yes, he spent several years at Bristol City in the Championship before moving to the Premier League with Bournemouth.
Who is Antoine Semenyo’s manager at Manchester City?
He plays under Pep Guardiola, who has praised Semenyo’s “extraordinary” qualities and tactical flexibility.
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