Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo has revealed how studying Chelsea legend Didier Drogba and Arsenal icon Thierry Henry helped shape his game. The Ghanaian international, who has been one of the standout performers in the ongoing Premier League campaign, credited his time at Bristol City for refining his playing style and helping him reach his current level.
“It was actually one of the assistant coaches at the time at Bristol that suggested I should be watching a lot of clips from my idols,” Semenyo told Premier League TV. “He suggested Embolo from Monaco. He felt like my play style is very similar.”
At just 25 years old, Semenyo has been instrumental in Bournemouth’s impressive season, contributing to 10 league goals. His dynamic attacking play and versatility have made him a key asset for the Cherries, who put together an 11-game unbeaten streak before it was halted by Liverpool. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with many considering him one of the league’s most exciting talents.
Reflecting on his journey, Semenyo shared how a shin injury in 2022 turned into a defining moment in his career. Instead of letting the setback hinder his growth, he used the recovery period to study some of football’s greatest strikers, refining his technique and tactical awareness.
“I watched Henry and Drogba for inspiration—movement, working on heading, just footwork, just those sorts of things. I used my time watching them,” he said. “I was out for three to four months. It was a lot of watching. I used the time wisely to watch them and included them in my game.”
Semenyo’s admiration for Drogba and Henry is not surprising, given their immense influence on the modern game. Drogba, a Premier League and Champions League winner with Chelsea, was known for his strength, aerial ability, and knack for scoring in big moments. Henry, Arsenal’s all-time leading goal scorer, revolutionized forward play with his pace, technique, and finishing. By studying these two legends, Semenyo has added new dimensions to his game, making him a more complete attacker.
His growth has been evident since his €10.3 million move from Bristol City to Bournemouth in January 2023. Initially viewed as a promising but raw talent, he has now developed into one of Bournemouth’s key figures. His ability to play across the front line, whether as a center forward or winger, has given manager Andoni Iraola tactical flexibility and allowed Bournemouth to compete against the league’s top sides.
Semenyo’s evolution into a Premier League star is a testament to his dedication and willingness to learn. Many young players struggle to adapt to the intensity and demands of England’s top flight, but Semenyo’s commitment to improving his craft has set him apart. His ability to take inspiration from legends of the game and apply it to his own style has been a major factor in his rapid rise.
Beyond his technical ability, Semenyo’s physical attributes make him a nightmare for defenders. His strength allows him to hold off challenges, while his acceleration and agility help him glide past opponents with ease. These traits, combined with the lessons he has taken from Drogba and Henry, have made him a well-rounded forward capable of delivering in crucial moments.
His impressive form has not gone unnoticed by bigger clubs. With Bournemouth pushing for a European spot, Semenyo’s contributions have played a significant role in their ambitions. However, his performances have also attracted interest from top clubs across Europe, with scouts closely monitoring his progress. If he continues at this rate, a move to one of the Premier League’s traditional giants or a top European club could be on the horizon.
For now, though, Semenyo remains focused on helping Bournemouth achieve their goals. The Cherries have shown they can compete with the best, and with players like Semenyo leading the charge, they have the potential to make history. His journey from Bristol City to becoming a Premier League star has been inspiring, and with the influence of Drogba and Henry guiding him, the best may still be yet to come.
Semenyo’s story is a reminder of the importance of perseverance and learning. Injuries and setbacks are common in football, but how a player responds to them often determines their success. Instead of seeing his shin injury as a roadblock, Semenyo turned it into an opportunity for growth. By studying the movements, finishing, and decision-making of two of the greatest forwards in football history, he transformed his game and is now reaping the rewards.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Semenyo to see how far he can take Bournemouth. The Premier League is known for its unpredictability, and with Semenyo playing at his best, Bournemouth could be on the verge of something special. His ability to influence games, create chances, and score goals makes him a crucial asset for the team.
Fans of the Ghana national team will also be excited about Semenyo’s development. With Ghana always looking for attacking firepower, having a player of his caliber in top form bodes well for their future. His experience in the Premier League, coupled with his growth as a player, could see him play a vital role in Ghana’s upcoming international campaigns.
Semenyo’s admiration for Drogba and Henry speaks to his ambition. He is not just content with playing at a high level; he wants to reach the very top. By modeling his game after two of the greatest strikers in football history, he has set high standards for himself. This hunger for improvement and excellence will only push him further.
Bournemouth fans will be hoping that Semenyo remains with the club for the foreseeable future, but with his talent and growing reputation, it may only be a matter of time before he takes the next step in his career. Until then, he will continue to light up the Premier League, proving that hard work, resilience, and the willingness to learn from legends can take a player to incredible heights.
