Antoine Semenyo wasted no time proving his worth to Manchester City, scoring on his debut as the Sky Blues secured a commanding 2-0 victory over Newcastle United in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semifinal on January 13, 2026.

The Ghanaian international, who completed his £64 million transfer from Bournemouth just days earlier, found the net in the 53rd minute to open the scoring at St. James' Park. French midfielder Rayan Cherki then sealed the victory deep into stoppage time, giving City a significant advantage heading into the second leg.

Semenyo's move to the Etihad Stadium represents one of the most significant transfers of the January window. The 26-year-old signed a five-and-a-half-year contract, committing his future to City through 2031. The deal, which includes performance-related bonuses worth £1.5 million and a 10 percent sell-on clause, takes Manchester City's spending over the past 12 months to a staggering £425.9 million across 14 players.

The forward had been in scintillating form before his move, ranking as the third-highest scorer in the Premier League this season with 10 goals in 20 appearances for Bournemouth. His versatility, ability to play on either wing or as a central striker, combined with his pace and power, made him an attractive target for several top clubs.

Pep Guardiola confirmed that City had to fend off competition from multiple Premier League rivals to secure Semenyo's signature. Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, and Arsenal were all reportedly interested in the Ghana international before City moved decisively to trigger discussions around his £65 million release clause.

Speaking after completing his transfer, Semenyo expressed his delight at joining one of European football's elite clubs. He described watching City's dominance under Guardiola over the past decade and spoke of the opportunity to work alongside world-class players at world-class facilities.

Director of Football Hugo Viana praised the new signing's attributes, highlighting his technical quality with both feet, his pace, and his ability to influence matches. Viana also emphasized Semenyo's potential for further development, suggesting the forward has not yet reached his peak.

Guardiola echoed these sentiments, noting that Semenyo's Premier League experience was a crucial factor in the decision to pursue him. The manager highlighted the player's proven track record at Bournemouth and expressed confidence that he would adapt quickly to City's demanding style of play.

The debut goal against Newcastle provided immediate validation of City's investment. With a 2-0 lead to protect in the second leg, Guardiola's side are now strong favorites to reach yet another domestic cup final. For Semenyo, the strike represented the perfect start to what he hopes will be a trophy-laden chapter in his career.

As the January transfer window continues, other Premier League clubs are also making moves. Brennan Johnson has completed a £35 million transfer from Tottenham to Crystal Palace, while West Ham have been particularly active, bringing in Taty Castellanos from Lazio for £25.2 million among several signings. However, it is Semenyo's arrival at the Etihad that has captured the most attention, with the forward already demonstrating why City were willing to pay such a premium for his services.