MANCHESTER — When Manchester City triggered the £64 million release clause for Antoine Semenyo in early January, the move was met with a mix of intrigue and skepticism. Why would Pep Guardiola, the master of control and “death by a thousand passes,” turn to a high-octane, direct forward from Bournemouth in the middle of a title race?
Three weeks into the “Semenyo era,” the answer is staring the Premier League in the face.
Following his clinical performance in City’s 4-1 demolition of Everton this Saturday, Semenyo has officially transitioned from a “January gamble” to Manchester City’s most lethal tactical pivot. While Erling Haaland provides the gravity and Phil Foden provides the grace, Semenyo has introduced something the Etihad hasn’t seen in years: unpredictable, vertical chaos.
Versatility: The Tactical Swiss Army Knife
Against Everton today, Semenyo started on the right wing but ended the match playing as a secondary striker. This versatility is what allows Guardiola to rest the likes of Jeremy Doku and Savinho without losing any offensive punch.
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The Two-Footed Threat: Semenyo’s goal today—a thumping strike from the edge of the area—came from his “weaker” left foot, a trait Pep highlighted as “unbelievable” during his introductory press conference.
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The “Atmosphere” Player: Inside the club, sources say Semenyo’s “fearless” attitude has reinvigorated a dressing room that felt stagnant following the winter losses to Manchester United and Bodo/Glimt.
The Path to the Title
With the win over Everton, City have effectively neutralized the damage from Arsenal’s recent slip-up at Wolves. The gap is now down to a precarious two points (with City still holding a game in hand).
As the Champions League knockout stages loom and the “March Madness” of the domestic schedule begins, City’s £64m man isn’t just a backup—he’s the weapon that might just win them a fifth consecutive title.
