Forward explains how he settled quickly after January move
“Just play your game”: Semenyo reveals Guardiola’s key message at City
55Antoine Semenyo said Pep Guardiola’s advice helped him settle quickly at Manchester City after his January move from Bournemouth.
Fast impact at the Etihad
Antoine Semenyo enjoyed impressive start to life at Manchester City scoring six goal since joining the club from Bournemouth in January.
In exclusive interview with Sky Sports, the 26 year-old explained how he adapted so quickly to new environment moving from mid-table side into a title race.
According to Semenyo, the key was clear and simple message from City manager Pep Guardiola.
Guardiola’s advice gave confidence
Semenyo revealed that Guardiola told him to keep playing his natural game. The City coach encouraged him to express himself, shoot, dribble and play with freedom, without changing his style to fit the team.
The forward said this approach boosted his confidence as he felt trusted from the first day.
Guardiola made it clear that while City are possession-based team, there would always be moments for Semenyo to show his individual quality.
Learning a new way to attack
Semenyo also spoke about how Guardiola’s tactical ideas helped him improve. He explained that City’s system focuses on drawing defenders and midfielders out of position to create space.
These details which he had not always thought about before are now part of his game.
Semenyo added that adapting to the system was important and that his teammates made the transition easier by giving constant support and guidance on the pitch.
New challenges & Big moments
Life at Manchester City has brought new experiences for Semenyo. Just 26 day after joining, he reached his first cup final, something he described as dream moment in his career.
He admitted that facing top teams like Arsenal in finals is what every footballer hopes for. However he stressed that the hard work must continue as City are still competing on several fronts this season.
Focus on Liverpool clash
Attention now turns to major Premier League test against Liverpool at Anfield. Semenyo called the match a “statement game” and one of City’s most important fixtures of the season.
Having already scored at Anfield earlier in the campaign with Bournemouth, he said he is excited to feel the atmosphere again describing these matches as special and full of intensity.
Alongside his strong start at Manchester City, Semenyo recently named himself in his Premier League “Team of the Season so far” alongside players such as Declan Rice, Moisés Caicedo, Erling Haaland, Mykhailo Doku and Rayan Cherki.
Hunger for success
Semenyo believes Manchester City must rediscover the hunger that defined their most successful seasons.
He said Guardiola has reminded the squad about playing with fire and determination especially after mixed results in recent matches.
The forward made it clear that his goals are not personal records alone. He wants trophies and believes City can still fight on all fronts if the team maintains the right mentality.
