Ghana international Antoine Semenyo is set to provide Manchester City with an additional attacking option this season, with his versatility making him the leading alternative to Erling Haaland in the centre-forward role.
While Haaland remains City’s undisputed first-choice striker, the club does not have another recognised natural centre-forward in the squad who can directly deputise for the Norwegian.
Semenyo’s ability to operate in several attacking positions has therefore increased his importance to manager Enzo Maresca, particularly in a campaign expected to place significant demands on City’s squad.
The Ghanaian has predominantly featured as a winger or forward, but his pace, strength and direct style of play give him the qualities needed to operate through the middle when required.
His willingness to run behind defences and compete physically with opponents could allow City to maintain much of their attacking threat even if Haaland is unavailable.
Rather than requiring the club to change its tactical approach, Semenyo’s flexibility provides Maresca with an option who can be moved into the striker position while maintaining the team’s preferred attacking structure.
The development also highlights the growing value of Semenyo’s ability to adapt to different roles since joining City during the January transfer window.
He played a significant part in the club’s success last season, contributing as City secured both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
With City facing another demanding schedule, Semenyo could now have an even greater responsibility within the squad.
His emergence as Haaland’s emergency cover means the Ghanaian could be called upon to lead the attack at crucial moments, giving him another opportunity to establish himself as a key member of the City squad.
