Antoine Semenyo made his Manchester City debut in their FA Cup third-round win over EFL League One outfit Exeter City, and fans have given their verdict on the Ghanaian attacker. He only arrived at the Etihad on Friday (January 9th) but was handed a start by Pep Guardiola.
City coasted to victory courtesy of goals from Max Alleyne (12'), Rodri (24'), Jake Doyle-Hayes (42' OG), Jack Fitzwater (45+2' OG), Rico Lewis (49'), Tijani Reijnders (71') and Nico O'Reilly (79'). Semenyo was also on the scoresheet in the 54th minute, driving forward and calmly slotting home.
Semenyo was one of the most coveted forwards in England, with Manchester United, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea also looking to secure his signature. But the 26-year-old opted to join City, who negotiated a fee below his £65 million release clause to sign him.
Man City Thrash Exeter: Semenyo Puts Arsenal and Teammate on Notice
White Black Modern Photo Collage Before After Youtube Thumbnail - 2026-01-10T162307.561
Guardiola revealed shortly after Semenyo's arrival that the Cityzens had been following the Ghana international for a long time. The Spaniard will have liked what he saw from his new signing, albeit against weak opposition.
Semenyo was impressive on his debut and already has a goal and an assist in City colours. He produced an excellent low-driven cross for Lewis to bag the hosts' fourth after playing a one-two out on the left channel.
The Ghanaian was faultless in possession, always involved in the action with 50 touches of the ball as he drove the Sky Blues forward. He made two key passes and looks like a perfect fit for Guardiola's team, who were already spoiled with top attacking talent.
Arsenal will have watched his display with concern, given he arrives at the Etihad with City chasing the Gunners in the title race. But it's not only the Gunners who might be fretting over the in-form forward.
Bernardo Silva has been a mainstay in Guardiola's team over the years and was handed the captain's armband in the summer. The Portuguese attacker has been a regular starter this season, but could be dropped if Semenyo continues to star.
'Beautiful to Watch' - Semenyo Delights Man City Fans
White Black Modern Photo Collage Before After Youtube Thumbnail - 2026-01-10T160753.701
The Etihad faithful got their first look at Semenyo as a City player, and they liked what they saw as he came up with a goal and an assist. He looks to have already won supporters over as one suggested he takes Guardiola's attack up a level:
"Semenyo is a massive upgrade in anything City have in the forward areas."
The former Bristol City man's quick adaption didn't go unnoticed by one fan:
"Semenyo finding himself in some nice areas, looking forward to seeing him play more for us especially after a few more training sessions lol."
Another supporter is excited for the future:
"Semenyo ball ohh my goodness we’re gonna have a lot of fun together."
One reckons Semenyo could soon permanently claim the right-wing berth:
"It’s only a matter of time, Semenyo will be the starting RW for Pep. The guy is very tidy on the ball."
Another loved his performance:
"Semenyo, you’re moving me. Fantastic debut so far. Full of energy. A constant threat on the ball. I love it."
One added:
"Semenyo is beautiful to watch so far."
White Black Modern Photo Collage Before After Youtube Thumbnail - 2026-01-10T160740.128
Guardiola will want Semenyo to continue his incredible run of form with his City side still chasing Arsenal in the Premier League title race. The Sky Blues are six points behind the Gunners after 21 games, and a trip to Old Trafford to face neighbours Manchester United is next up in the league (January 17th).
Before that, the Cityzens turn their attention to the Carabao Cup when they face Newcastle United in the first leg of their semi-final. Semenyo could be headed to Wembley in February if his side can overcome the Magpies.