Antoine Semenyo is optimistic about stepping in as Manchester City’s striker in the absence of Erling Haaland, especially after scoring two goals against Sunderland.
Semenyo scored once before and once after half-time, contributing to City’s exhilarating 5-3 win over the Black Cats on Sunday, which preserved their perfect record in the Premier League ahead of the international break.
The Ghanaian also provided an assist for Rayan Cherki, marking the fourth time in his career—and the second as a City player—he has both scored and assisted in the same Premier League match.
Since moving from Bournemouth in January, the Ghana international has netted 13 goals in 34 matches across all competitions, with only Haaland (19 goals in 32 games) exceeding his tally during that period.
During this time, Semenyo has significantly outperformed his expected goals (xG) of 7.74, achieving a margin greater than any other City player (+5.26), while his conversion rate stands at 20.6%, slightly ahead of Haaland’s 20.4%.
As City did not sign another forward during the summer transfer window, some believe Semenyo may need to fill in as a number nine this season, a task he is ready to embrace.
“I’ve heard about the backup striker talk. I’m not sure where it originated! But yes, if I need to step up, I’m ready to do it,” he told ESPN.
“I think finishing is instinctive for me. When I’m in front of the goal, it’s not going anywhere. As long as I strike it well into the corner, I believe it will go in.”
Changing the game
@antoinesemenyo pic.twitter.com/qgfIhpxcg8
— Manchester City (@ManCity) September 20, 2026
Another City player making waves this season is Cherki, who demonstrated excellent footwork to score City’s second goal on Sunday.
With six goal contributions this season (four goals and two assists), he ranks second among City players, just behind Haaland, who has seven goals.
“I’m really pleased because it was the goal to put us ahead at 2-1. I wanted to help my teammates,” Cherki shared on City’s website. “I strive to assist them with great passes.”
“It’s important for me to score plenty for my team. I cherish our fans, and I think they witnessed an exciting match, so I’m delighted with that.”
City will enjoy a three-week break before heading to Anfield for a showdown against Liverpool on October 11, having achieved five consecutive wins to start a league season for only the fifth time in history (previously in 1912-13, 2015-16, 2016-17, and 2023-24).
“Everyone is in good spirits,” Semenyo remarked about the atmosphere within Enzo Maresca’s squad.
“We are where we want to be, but we won’t become complacent. We know there are many more matches ahead of us.
“Our focus is on continuing our winning streak; we have been together for seven or eight weeks, and while it’s still early, we are performing well and improving.”
Fan Take: This news is significant for soccer fans as it highlights the potential for emerging talents like Semenyo to step into crucial roles and influence high-stakes matches. As the season progresses, his ability to deliver under pressure could play a key role in shaping Manchester City’s title ambitions and the overall dynamics of the Premier League.
Source: www.soccernews.com
