Pep Guardiola has praised Antoine Semenyo’s flying start at Manchester City after the Ghana forward continued his impressive goalscoring form in the Carabao Cup.
Semenyo, who joined the Premier League champions from AFC Bournemouth on a five-and-a-half-year deal, opened his City account at the weekend against Exeter City before adding another crucial strike on Tuesday night.
The 26-year-old broke the deadlock in City’s 2–0 victory over Newcastle United at St James’ Park in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final, with Ryan Cherki sealing the win deep into stoppage time.
Guardiola admitted his side struggled to find their rhythm in the first half but was pleased with their improved display after the break.
“Semenyo and Erling Haaland were not completely connected in the first half. They were not ready to receive the ball,” Guardiola told Sky Sports after the game.
“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,” he added.
Semenyo appeared to score a second goal, but it was ruled out following a VAR review. Reflecting on the decision, Guardiola said the incident would only make his team stronger.
“Four officials and VAR were not able to make the decision, so they had to go to the referee. We know how it works, and that will make us stronger. It’s the semi-finals and we have worked hard to reach this stage,” he said.
Semenyo has now taken his tally to 12 goals in all competitions and will be hoping to maintain his fine form when City face Manchester United in Saturday’s Manchester derby.
