Antoine Semenyo has marked a deeply personal milestone just days before a major step in his football career, revealing he has been baptised ahead of an expected move to Manchester City.
The Bournemouth forward is poised to complete a £65m transfer to the former Premier League champions, with City understood to be ready to trigger the release clause in his contract. But before the deal is finalised, Semenyo chose to share a moment of faith, holding his baptism on Bournemouth beach earlier this week.
Posting images of the ceremony on social media, the 25-year-old reflected on what he described as an emotional and spiritual experience.
“I don’t know where to start,” Semenyo wrote. “The love was endless. These pictures don’t even tell the full story, but I thank you God for your protection, your blessings and your work over my life. 2026 let’s get it!”
He added simply: “On a serious note, thank you God.”
The timing of the baptism comes as speculation around his future intensifies. Semenyo has been one of Bournemouth’s standout performers this season, attracting interest from several top clubs, with Manchester City now set to win the race for his signature.
However, Bournemouth are keen to keep the forward for at least one more match, insisting he will not depart until after Saturday’s Premier League clash against Arsenal.
If completed, the move would represent a significant step up for Semenyo, capping a rapid rise that has seen him develop from a promising talent into one of the league’s most sought-after attackers. For now, though, the player appears focused on gratitude and reflection, balancing a life-changing transfer with a moment he says goes far beyond football.
