Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo says he is eagerly anticipating Sunday afternoon’s heavyweight Premier League showdown against Liverpool at Anfield.
Pep Guardiola’s side travel to Merseyside to face the Reds in one of the season’s most keenly awaited fixtures, with the Ghana international set to experience the rivalry from a new perspective in City colours.
Semenyo has made a strong impression since his arrival, scoring four goals in his first six appearances for City.
He also has fond memories of Anfield, having struck twice at the iconic venue on the opening day of the season while still at former club Bournemouth.
Now, the 26-year-old is relishing the chance to feature in one of English football’s defining encounters.
“Before joining City, it was always entertaining watching City against Liverpool,” Semenyo said. “To now be part of it, I’m very grateful, but it’s going to be a tough challenge.
“We’re prepared for it and we’ll be fired up on the day. I’m really looking forward to the game.”
Semenyo’s form this season underlines why he was one of the most in-demand forwards in the Premier League. He has already registered 14 goals in 27 appearances across spells with Bournemouth and Manchester City in the current campaign.
Just a month into life in Manchester, he admits the transition has been smooth.
“Everyone has been very welcoming,” he said. “It’s a great environment to be around. You feel comfortable and free to be yourself. It’s a true champions’ environment.
“Playing with some of the best players in the world and being coached by one of the best managers in the world can only take my game to the next level.”
Semenyo also spoke warmly about working under Guardiola, describing the City boss as demanding but inspiring.
“He’s very intense and gives us a lot of insight into how he thinks as a coach,” he added. “He only wants us to improve. He believes in us so much and reminds us every day that we can win. I’m really enjoying it.
“I have high expectations of myself. Coming here, I knew there would be pressure to score goals like Erling Haaland, but I set those standards for myself from the start.
“Being on the same team as Erling is a blessing. Goalscoring is in my blood and my DNA, and I just want to keep going.”
Sunday’s match at Anfield is scheduled to kick off at 16:30 GMT.
