Manchester City’s January signing Antoine Semenyo has been named the Premier League Player of the Week for Matchday 26 following a clinical display against Fulham.
The Ghana international, who arrived at the Etihad from Bournemouth last month, secured the accolade after inspiring Pep Guardiola’s side to a dominant 3-0 victory at the Etihad Stadium.
Semenyo claimed 39% of the public vote, edging out Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, who finished with 32%.
The Black Stars forward becomes the third City player to win the award this season, following in the footsteps of teammates Erling Haaland and Jeremy Doku.
The 26-year-old forward was at the heart of everything positive for the champions on Saturday.
He opened the scoring by reacting quickest to a goalmouth scramble, poaching from close range after the Fulham defence failed to clear their lines.
Semenyo then turned provider, showing his creative flair to set up youngster Nico O’Reilly for City’s second.
While Erling Haaland later added a third to gloss the scoreline, it was the Ghanaian forward who walked away with the Player of the Match honours for his relentless energy and decisive final ball.
Since his high-profile move from the South Coast in the winter window, Semenyo has integrated seamlessly into the City frontline.
He has now registered an impressive five goals in just seven appearances for the Premier League giants.
His victory in this week’s poll saw him beat a competitive shortlist that included Lukas Nmecha of Leeds United, Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper José Sá, Newcastle United’s Malick Thiaw, and Burnley forward Jaidon Anthony.
Semenyo’s electric start suggests he has filled a vital tactical niche in the Manchester City squad.
His ability to operate both as a central poacher and a wide playmaker has already endeared him to the Etihad faithful, providing the versatility Pep Guardiola craves during a title charge.
With five goals already under his belt, the Ghanaian looks set to be a pivotal figure as City enters the business end of the season.
