Antoine Semenyo Injury: Man City Winger Out
The Antoine Semenyo injury will keep Manchester City's winger out for around eight weeks after a knee problem, confirms Enzo Maresca.
Antoine Semenyo Injury: Man City Winger Out for Eight Weeks
Manchester City have suffered an injury setback after Antoine Semenyo was ruled out for approximately eight weeks with a knee problem, manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed.
The Ghana international picked up the injury during Manchester City's 3–2 Premier League victory over Ipswich Town on Saturday, October 17. Semenyo came on as a substitute in the closing stages but suffered the setback after entering the action.
Speaking ahead of City's Champions League meeting with AEK Athens, Maresca revealed that medical scans had brought some relief after the initial concern that the injury could be more serious.
“In the first moment we expected an even worse injury, so we were more worried,” the City manager explained. “After yesterday's scan we feel much better because it's not so big like we expected.”
Maresca then confirmed the likely length of the winger's absence, saying: “It could be eight weeks. Now in this moment the most important thing for him is his recovery. When he is back around December it will be like a new player in terms of energy.”
A setback for Manchester City's attack
The Antoine Semenyo injury comes at a difficult point in the campaign, with City facing a busy run of Premier League and European fixtures. His absence removes an important attacking option while the coaching staff assess how best to manage the squad during the coming weeks.
Semenyo had contributed two Premier League goals and three assists during the opening part of the season, making his availability valuable as City look to maintain their strong league form.
His versatility could also have proved useful in attack. Maresca had discussed the possibility of using Semenyo as an alternative centre-forward to give Erling Haaland a rest when necessary. With the Ghanaian now sidelined, City will need to consider other options if they need to rotate their main striker.
Erling Haaland fitness also under watch
City's injury concerns have been compounded by a knock suffered by Haaland during the Ipswich match. The Norwegian striker scored twice in the 3–2 win but was seen limping after the final whistle.
Maresca said Haaland could still be available for the Champions League clash with AEK Athens, although his condition would be assessed following training.
The manager acknowledged that replacing Haaland would be difficult but suggested Phil Foden could be one possible solution if required.
For Semenyo, the immediate priority is recovery rather than rushing back. An eight-week absence would take him into December, although his exact return date will depend on his rehabilitation and progress.
Manchester City will hope the winger can return fully fit for the decisive stretch of the season. Until then, Maresca must find ways to keep his attack effective without one of his options on the wing.
Source: Manchester City’s official website and Reuters.
