Semenyo embraces Maresca’s attacking approach at Manchester City

Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo says Manchester City’s new style under manager Enzo Maresca is perfectly suited to his game, describing the Italian’s approach as “music to my ears.”

The winger made the remarks after City’s first outing under Maresca, a pre-season encounter against Inter Milan in Hong Kong. Although City eventually lost on penalties, the match offered an early glimpse of the tactical direction the new manager intends to take.

Semenyo was among the standout performers during the opening half, using his pace and direct running to trouble Inter’s defence and helping create the move that led to City’s goal.

The 25-year-old said he became excited about the managerial appointment as soon as it was announced because of the freedom Maresca typically gives attacking wide players.

According to him, discussions with the new coach have focused on how wingers fit into the team’s system, with an emphasis on staying wide, taking on defenders and creating scoring opportunities.

Semenyo believes the philosophy shares similarities with that of former manager Pep Guardiola but allows greater freedom for attacking players in one-on-one situations.

The Ghana international joined City from Bournemouth in January in a deal reported to be worth £65 million after attracting interest from several top Premier League clubs.

Reflecting on the move, he credited Bournemouth for helping him establish himself in the English top flight and said he viewed Manchester City as the ideal next step in his career.

Semenyo enjoyed an impressive 2025-26 campaign, scoring 21 goals for club and country and helping City lift major silverware, including the FA Cup.

Away from football, the forward also spoke about the importance of his Christian faith, revealing that he was baptised last year after long hoping to take that step.

He said faith remains the foundation of his life and career, explaining that he regularly prays before matches and believes his talent and success are gifts from God.

Semenyo added that his spiritual beliefs help shape his mentality on and off the pitch, insisting that faith will always come before football in his life.

Source: BBC