Pep Guardiola has officially confirmed Manchester City’s signing of Antoine Semenyo, revealing the club have been tracking the Bournemouth forward for a long time. The 26-year-old completed a £62.5 million move to the Etihad Stadium on Friday, January 9, 2026, signing a five-and-a-half-year contract that runs until 2031.
As reported by SoftFootball, Semenyo will wear the No. 42 shirt at City after agreeing to personal terms and finalising his move following a successful medical. City’s interest in Semenyo was not sudden. SoftFootball earlier detailed how the forward underwent his medical ahead of a big-money switch, with Guardiola personally involved in pushing the deal forward.
The City boss later explained why the club moved decisively, especially during a period affected by injuries across the squad. Speaking to the media, Guardiola praised Semenyo’s versatility and physical qualities in a post shared by Fabrizio Romano on his official X account.
Fabrizio Romano posted:
Pep Guardiola: We’ve been following Semenyo for long time. He can play on both sides, right and left, uses both legs unbelievably. And at striker as well he can play with his pace.
Many clubs wanted him and he decided to join us – so only I can say is thanks to him.
Guardiola confirmed that Semenyo will be included in the matchday squad for Saturday’s FA Cup third-round clash against Exeter City, although a starting role is not guaranteed. Still, his availability comes at a good time, with Savinho, Oscar Bobb, and Jeremy Doku all dealing with fitness issues.
The City manager also revealed how competitive the race for Semenyo’s signature was, referencing interest from Manchester United, Tottenham, Chelsea, and Arsenal. He also pointed out that Semenyo already understands the demands of the Premier League, something City value highly.
Semenyo is also eligible for the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Newcastle United. Just days before the transfer, he scored a dramatic 95th-minute winner for Bournemouth against Tottenham, a reminder of his match-winning edge. Guardiola insists he has time to adapt, but quietly, City will hope the impact comes sooner rather than later.
