Adebayor Backs Antoine Semenyo to Become Manchester City Star

Adebayor Guiding the New City Forward

Former Manchester City and Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor believes Antoine Semenyo has what it takes to become the star player at the Etihad Stadium. The 26-year-old Ghana forward joined Manchester City from Bournemouth in January on a five and a half year contract.

Adebayor revealed that the forward frequently reaches out to him for career guidance. Semenyo asks how he can improve his game. Adebayor told him to keep his head down, work hard, and believe in his quality. He reminded Semenyo that a big club like City would have held many meetings before deciding to sign him.

A Strong Start Under Enzo Maresca

Semenyo has quickly settled into life under new Manchester City coach Enzo Maresca. He has started all five Premier League matches so far this season. On Saturday, he scored twice and set up another goal in a 5-3 victory against Sunderland.

These were his first Premier League goals of the season, adding to the two assists he recorded in the opening four matches. Before his big move, Semenyo had scored 10 league goals for Bournemouth in the first half of last season. He has also played for Bristol City, Bath City, Newport County, and Sunderland. Adebayor expects him to keep improving and eventually become the best player in the squad.

International Concerns for Ghana

Adebayor also spoke about the national team as Ghana prepare to face Ivory Coast in a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. The Black Stars will be without several senior figures, including Semenyo, Mohammed Kudus, Baba Rahman, and Jordan Ayew, who have all withdrawn from the squad.

The former Togo captain warned that these absences will leave Ghana short of the experience needed for such a big game. He noted that players like Kudus help bring confidence to the younger members of the squad, which is vital for a derby match.

Adebayor, who now lives in Ghana, also shared that he helped convince Auxerre defender Marvin Senaya to represent Ghana over Togo. Senaya was eligible for both nations but chose Ghana after Adebayor advised him to take the chance to play in the World Cup.