Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has praised Ghanaian forward Antoine Semenyo after another influential performance helped City secure a vital away victory in the Carabao Cup. Semenyo continued his impressive start at the Etihad Stadium by playing a key role in City’s 2-0 win over Newcastle United in the semi-final first leg at St James’ Park, further underlining his growing importance to Guardiola’s side.
Semenyo, who joined Manchester City earlier this season on a five-and-a-half-year deal from AFC Bournemouth, has wasted little time in making his mark at his new club. The 26-year-old opened his goalscoring account for City against Exeter City last weekend and carried that confidence into Tuesday night’s crucial cup encounter against Newcastle.
After a tightly contested first half in which City struggled to impose their usual attacking rhythm, Semenyo broke the deadlock shortly after the restart. The Ghana international showed composure and sharp movement inside the box to finish clinically, giving City a crucial advantage in a difficult away fixture. Substitute Ryan Cherki later added a second goal deep into stoppage time to put City firmly in control of the tie ahead of the return leg.
Guardiola admitted that his side did not find their usual fluency in the opening stages of the match, particularly in attack. However, he was pleased with the improvement shown after the break and highlighted the growing understanding between Semenyo and Erling Haaland as a key factor in City’s second-half dominance.
“They were not completely connected in the first half,” Guardiola said after the match. “They were not ready to get that ball. In the second half, they were ready. We know Bournemouth did an incredible job with him, and every time the ball arrives at him, he is always there.”
The City boss’s comments reflect both patience and belief in Semenyo’s ability to adapt to Guardiola’s demanding system. Known for his physicality, direct running, and versatility across the front line, Semenyo has added a new dimension to City’s attack, complementing Haaland’s presence and providing another outlet in high-pressure matches.
Semenyo thought he had doubled his tally on the night after finding the net for a second time, only for the goal to be disallowed following a VAR review. The decision prompted frustration among City players, but Guardiola played down the controversy, instead emphasising the importance of maintaining focus as the competition reaches its decisive stages.
“Four officials and VAR were not able to make the decision; they had to go to the referee,” Guardiola said. “We know how it works, and that will make us stronger. It’s the semi-finals. We play a lot to reach the finals.”
Despite the disallowed goal, Semenyo’s overall contribution once again caught the eye. His work rate off the ball, ability to hold up play, and willingness to take on defenders gave Newcastle persistent problems, especially as City increased the tempo after halftime. For Guardiola, these qualities are just as important as goals, particularly in knockout competitions where margins are often fine.
The strike against Newcastle took Semenyo’s tally to 12 goals in all competitions this season, an impressive return that highlights his rapid adaptation to life at one of Europe’s elite clubs. His form has also strengthened his case for a more prominent role in City’s starting lineup as the season enters a crucial phase.
Semenyo’s rise has been closely followed by football fans in Ghana, where he has long been regarded as one of the country’s most dynamic attacking talents. His performances at Manchester City have further elevated his profile and added to the growing list of Ghanaian players making an impact at the highest level of European football.
For Manchester City, the victory at St James’ Park represents a significant step toward another domestic cup final. With a two-goal cushion heading into the second leg, Guardiola’s side are well placed, though the manager is unlikely to allow any complacency given Newcastle’s quality and the unpredictable nature of knockout football.
Attention now quickly turns to City’s next challenge, a high-stakes Manchester derby against Manchester United on Saturday. The fixture presents another opportunity for Semenyo to showcase his form on one of the biggest stages in English football. With confidence flowing and the backing of his manager, the Ghanaian forward will be eager to continue his momentum and further cement his place in Guardiola’s plans.
Guardiola’s praise also highlights City’s broader approach to squad building. By integrating players like Semenyo, who bring different attributes and hunger to succeed, City continue to evolve while maintaining their competitive edge across multiple competitions. As the season progresses, Semenyo’s development could prove decisive in City’s pursuit of silverware.
As the Carabao Cup semi-final tie remains delicately poised, Manchester City supporters will take encouragement from both the result and the performances of key players. For Semenyo, the journey is only just beginning, but his early impact suggests he is ready to embrace the pressure and expectations that come with wearing the City shirt.
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