Antoine Simenho: Why did Manchester City sign the “exceptional” Bournemouth striker?

The profile of the Semenyo is unique, and at the stated price point, it seemed like a no-brainer.

Stylistically, we’ve seen City tend to attack in transition more quickly this season than previously under Guardiola, who played to the strengths of Haaland, Foden, Tijjani Reynders and Doku – attacking quickly across wide distances.

As a result, City have scored more quick kicks this season than they did in the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons combined.

Bournemouth’s direct style of attack means that Semenho’s pace, good play, intelligent decision-making and footwork can easily be transferred into the City side.

These are dangerous traits, especially when playing for long periods against teams that try to press high up the pitch.

Guardiola also likes versatile players, as they provide solutions to injury crises.

“The years we were successful, not just as strikers [were scoring]Especially the wingers and attacking midfielders. “We need that,” Guardiola said earlier this month.

City’s over-reliance on Haaland’s 20 goals will be something it will want to address. Foden has scored the second most goals with seven, but has been moved away from the No. 10 position, where he often scores from distance.

Signing Semenyu could help move Foden back to the areas where Guardiola feels he is most dangerous.

Semenyo has the added advantage of providing goals himself while starting as a winger. With 10 goals in the league this season, only Thiago and Haaland have more.

If City want to overtake Arsenal and win the league, getting the top scorers behind Haaland could seem like a smart move.