In a move that signals both immediate intent and long-term planning, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that new signing Antoine Semenyo will be involved in Saturday’s FA Cup third-round tie against Exeter City.
The £62.5 million arrival from Bournemouth could make his debut just days after scoring a dramatic late winner for his former club.
Guardiola stated definitively that the 26-year-old Ghanaian winger will be part of the matchday squad for the Etihad Stadium clash, though his role is yet to be determined. “He’ll be selected,” said the City boss. “I don’t know if he’ll start but he’ll be selected for sure”.
This immediate inclusion comes after Semenyo completed his transfer on Friday morning, having starred for Bournemouth in a Premier League victory over Tottenham on Wednesday.
The manager revealed that Semenyo’s acquisition is a strategic investment for the club’s future, culminating from years of observation. “We followed him for a long time,” Guardiola explained, noting that many clubs were interested in the player. He emphasized that the signing aligns with the club’s model, saying, “We need to reinforce for the next years and that’s why the club made the gesture to take him and [he’s] at the perfect age. The best years are to come”.
Guardiola expressed gratitude that Semenyo chose City, adding, “Many clubs wanted him and he decided to join us so all I can say is thanks to him”.
While the focus is on integrating the new star, Guardiola was also careful to pay full respect to City’s League One opponents, Exeter City. He indicated that his team’s approach would be the ultimate sign of that respect. “When I arrived here ten years ago, when we played against teams in lower divisions… it was typical football,” he reflected.
“But now you see the teams, they have the ball, they play really good. I saw their last two games… it didn’t happen ten years ago. We have huge respect”. He stressed that the best way to honor the competition and the opponent is through serious, focused performance.
The fixture arrives as Manchester City seeks to rediscover a winning rhythm, having drawn their last three Premier League matches. Guardiola acknowledged the tight title race, noting that Arsenal’s recent draw was preferable to a win for the London club but maintained that his team’s primary focus must be on self-improvement.
Semenyo’s potential debut offers a glimpse of an enhanced attacking option for City. Analysis suggests he will bring a blend of physical power, two-footed shooting ability, and an exceptional work rate off the ball, ranking highly among Premier League forwards for defensive recoveries this season.