Antoine Semenyo joins Man City in £65 million transfer: 'I can do anything at any moment'

Manchester City have strengthened their attack by signing Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth in a deal reportedly worth £65 million (Rs 780 crore approx). The 26-year-old has signed a long-term contract of five-and-a-half years and will now be part of Pep Guardiola’s squad, which will see him earn over Rs 11 crore per month and over Rs 140 crore per year.

Semenyo has been one of the standout attackers in the Premier League this season, scoring 10 goals for Bournemouth and regularly troubling defences with his pace and power. His performances attracted interest from several top clubs, including Manchester United and Liverpool, but it was City who won the race for his signature in the January transfer window.

Semenyo talks about his new stint

Speaking after completing the move, Semenyo said joining Manchester City came at the perfect time in his career. “I have watched City over the last decade under Pep Guardiola, and they have been the dominant team in the Premier League as well as achieving amazing things in the Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup,” Semenyo said.

“I have so much scope for improvement, so to be at this club, at this stage of my career, is perfect for me. It’s a real privilege to be here. My best football is yet to come, I am sure of that. And City are in a great position – still involved in four competitions. I really feel I can help them have a strong second half of the season,” he added.

More from Football

'They have to step up': Darren Fletcher slams his players after Manchester United bow out early in FA Cup Why Manchester United have been sacking managers since Alex Ferguson’s retirement

“It makes it so difficult for defenders to mark me – it’s my God-given talent. I feel very chaotic on the eye, just spontaneous and can do anything at any moment,” Semenyo, who will wear the jersey number 42, said.

Ready to be part of this journey 🩵 pic.twitter.com/HqdWaalk66

— Manchester City (@ManCity) January 9, 2026

City is second in the Premier League, six points behind Arsenal in its bid to regain the title after relinquishing it to Liverpool last season.

Guardiola’s team is fourth in the 36-club Champions League standings with two rounds of matches remaining in the league phase. The top eight qualify automatically for the round of 16.

Semenyo has never played in the Champions League. He could make his debut for City against Exeter in the third round of the FA Cup on Saturday — Guardiola said Semenyo will be in the squad — and is eligible to play in the English League Cup semifinals, with City playing the first leg at Newcastle on Tuesday.

(With agency inputs)