Key Points
- Antoine Semenyo credits Pep Guardiola’s tactical insights for his rapid adaptation and strong performances at Manchester City.
- Guardiola advised Semenyo to play freely, express himself, shoot, and dribble without overthinking.
- Semenyo highlights team support and learning to commit defenders to create spaces as key to his success.
- He describes the upcoming Liverpool match as a crucial statement game for City’s title aspirations.
Manchester (Liverpool Standard) February 8, 2026 – Antoine Semenyo, the Manchester City forward, has opened up about his seamless integration into the squad under Pep Guardiola following his recent move from Bournemouth.
Semenyo detailed how Guardiola’s coaching philosophy emphasises committing defenders and midfielders to open up spaces on the pitch, a nuance he now considers instinctively. The 26-year-old striker expressed gratitude for the guidance from teammates, which has eased his transition and contributed to his early goals at the Etihad Stadium.
How has Pep Guardiola helped Semenyo settle at Manchester City?
Semenyo recalled Guardiola’s direct message upon his arrival:
“Just continue playing your game. Play free, express yourself, shoot, dribble.”
This encouragement countered perceptions of Guardiola’s previously rigid style, allowing Semenyo to thrive as a powerful and clinical forward.
As reported by Sky Sports, Semenyo noted:
“I feel like the way Pep wants to play, it’s almost like you want to commit defenders. You want to commit midfielders. And once the space is opened up, you either go into it or you go behind.”
What challenges has Semenyo faced in his early City days?
Despite Manchester City’s position six points behind leaders Arsenal with 14 games remaining, Semenyo remains optimistic after a recent 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur, where he scored to put City 2-0 up. He urged the team to persist, stating anything is possible in the title race.
How did the Tottenham draw impact City’s campaign?
Semenyo admitted frustration over the second-half collapse against Spurs, attributing it partly to the home crowd’s influence, but emphasised the need to regroup and push forward in the Premier League. Guardiola echoed a defiant stance post-match, focusing on consistency over the remaining fixtures.
What lies ahead for Semenyo and Manchester City?
Looking to the Premier League clash with Liverpool, Semenyo called it a statement game and one of the season’s most important, igniting a special fire in the team. He aims to contribute to rewriting history amid City’s storied success, including the 2023 treble.
Semenyo’s fast start underscores his determination to elevate his game alongside young talents at a club striving to reclaim dominance.
