Enzo Maresca’s style of play excites Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo
Maresca’s Impact and Player Reception
Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo has expressed enthusiasm for new manager Enzo Maresca’s style of play, describing it as “music to my ears.” Maresca took charge after Pep Guardiola concluded his tenure. Semenyo played the initial 45 minutes in Maresca’s first match, a pre-season friendly against Inter Milan in Hong Kong, where City were defeated on penalties.
During the match, Semenyo demonstrated his pace and direct running, contributing to Divin Mubama’s goal. Maresca later praised Semenyo and substitute Ryan McAidoo, noting they are the “kind of wingers I love” due to their aggressive approach and ability in “one-v-one” situations.
Semenyo recalled his thoughts upon Maresca’s appointment, remembering the Italian’s previous coaching role at Chelsea where wide players were often positioned high and had freedom. He highlighted that this aspect particularly excited him, as it allows him frequent one-on-one opportunities. Semenyo also mentioned having individual meetings with Maresca to discuss the team’s setup and the role of wide players, finding Maresca’s ideas to be “great” and somewhat similar to Guardiola’s.
Player Backing for New Manager
Defender Josko Gvardiol has also voiced his support for Maresca, calling him the “perfect” choice to succeed Guardiola. Gvardiol emphasized that Maresca was chosen for a reason, possessing quality and new ideas. He acknowledged that adapting to a new tactical approach will require time, especially with a squad currently affected by post-World Cup breaks.
Gvardiol, who recently signed a new long-term contract with City until 2031, stressed the players’ responsibility to assist the new head coach in adapting quickly. He described the managerial change as something “totally new” and not easy, but affirmed the squad’s commitment to helping Maresca hit the ground running for the competitive season.
Maresca, who previously served as Guardiola’s assistant during the 2022-23 treble-winning season, has stated his intention to implement his own philosophy rather than simply replicating Guardiola’s. He explained that while some concepts might be similar, every manager is distinct, and he does not believe in a “copy and paste” approach to football management.
Semenyo’s Journey and Faith
Semenyo joined City from Bournemouth in the January transfer window for £65m, with City reportedly fending off interest from clubs like Manchester United, Liverpool, Tottenham, and Chelsea. He expressed gratitude to Bournemouth for helping his Premier League career flourish, noting the support from the management and staff.
Last season, Semenyo scored a total of 21 goals for both club and country. He scored the winning goal in the FA Cup final victory over Chelsea, an achievement he described as a “dream come true,” and also lifted the Carabao Cup.
Semenyo shared that Guardiola had spoken to him before his transfer, promising to make him a “better player.” He reflected on his desire for continuous improvement, acknowledging Guardiola’s help during his initial five months at the club and expressing sadness at his departure.
A devout Christian, Semenyo incorporates his faith into his daily life and football career. He was baptized last December, an act he had desired for a long time but was prevented from doing due to his football schedule. He stated that he is “walking with God” and aims to maximize his faith.
Semenyo prays before matches and with teammates Jeremy Doku and Marc Guehi the night before games, believing it provides them with “maximum strength.” He emphasized that his faith comes before football, attributing his talent and mindset to God and feeling a responsibility to perform and share his beliefs.
Source: bbc.com
