Pep Guardiola praises Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo’s impact at Manchester City

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has praised Antoine Semenyo for his adaptation to life at the club since his January move.

The 26-year-old joined from Bournemouth in the winter transfer window and has hit the ground running, scoring five times and providing two assists in his nine appearances so far.

Speaking in his press conference ahead of Saturday’s Premier League visit of Newcastle United, Guardiola outlined what Semenyo has brought to his squad.

“It’s not just scoring a lot of goals,” the Spanish gaffer said.

“The strikers and the players who play up front are so important. Not just that.

“Makes a special rhythm, his versatility to play many positions up front and in the three positions.

“We knew it and come from Bournemouth, they are exceptional in the rhythm and defensively, and he has it in his DNA. His impact has been really good.

“The guys who came adapt quickly because the guys here for a long time embrace them so quickly,” he added.

The Ghana international was one of the division’s standout players in the first half of the campaign while still at Bournemouth.

Semenyo is expected to feature when Newcastle United visit the Etihad Stadium.