Antoine Semenyo’s arrival at Manchester City has come with more than a headline transfer fee. The Ghana international has been handed the iconic No. 42 shirt, a number steeped in symbolism at the Etihad Stadium and one that immediately drew the attention of club legend Yaya Touré.
The former City midfielder, who famously wore the shirt during his own glittering spell in Manchester, publicly welcomed Semenyo and underlined the significance of the choice.
Touré took to social media to congratulate the forward, praising both the move and the continuation of what he described as the number’s African heritage.
“Antoine, a short message to say congratulation to your move to Man City. An incredible move and achievement. The number forty-two is a very special number, and I’m proud you have chose New Jersey, knowing it will continue its African heritage, and I know it’s exceptional hands. All the very best.”
Semenyo’s transfer was confirmed on Friday and he immediately joined Pep Guardiola’s squad, a swift transition that reflects both his readiness and City’s pressing need for attacking depth.
Guardiola later confirmed in a pre-match press conference that the new signing would be included in the matchday squad for the FA Cup third-round tie, signalling early trust in the 26-year-old.
The forward arrives in outstanding form after scoring 10 Premier League goals in 20 appearances for Bournemouth this season. His rise has been built on relentless work, including a period earlier in his career when he trained with two non-league sides in a single day while on loan at Bath City to maintain fitness.
