The Antoine Semenyo injury has handed Manchester City an unwelcome headline on a big European night. Enzo Maresca has confirmed the winger faces an eight-week absence, and City host AEK Athens in the Champions League tonight. The good news is that it could have been far worse. Here is everything you need to know.
What Happened to Antoine Semenyo?
Semenyo hurt his knee in City’s 3-2 Premier League win over Ipswich, after coming off the bench in the 76th minute. He was seen limping off after the game. Fears of a long-term ligament problem spread quickly, but the scan brought relief. Maresca said it was not as bad as the club expected. Reports say he has avoided an ACL injury.
When Will Semenyo Return?
He is expected back at some point in December. If the full two months are needed, he could return for the Boxing Day trip to Newcastle United. Maresca believes he will look like a new player in terms of energy when he returns.
Why His Absence Hurts
Semenyo had become a key figure fast. He started all nine matches before the weekend, setting the EFL Cup aside. He has two goals and three assists in the Premier League this season. Since arriving from Bournemouth in January, he has scored 11 goals and added three assists in 27 appearances. He has also been the most obvious alternative to Erling Haaland at centre-forward since Omar Marmoush left for Tottenham.
Who Replaces Semenyo?
City are hardly short of talent. Maresca’s wide options include Iliman Ndiaye, Jérémy Doku, Phil Foden, Rayan Cherki and Allan. Doku has only just returned to fitness, and Foden scored against Ipswich. Maresca said City will look for new solutions rather than rely on one replacement.
Haaland Is the Bigger Question
The real worry is the man up front. Haaland picked up a knock against Ipswich but is in the mix to face AEK, with Maresca saying he can be available. If he were to miss time, losing Semenyo as the backup nine would sting far more.
City Are Flying Anyway
City are top of the table with seven wins from seven in the Premier League. They have won nine of their last 10 matches, and bookmakers made them 1/12 favourites against AEK. One prediction site gave City an 89 percent chance of winning.
The Fixtures Semenyo Will Miss
The calendar is brutal. An away trip to Aston Villa next week looks difficult, as City lost there last season. Arsenal and Brentford are also on the list of games he could miss. Depth will define City’s season.
The Bottom Line
The Antoine Semenyo injury is a setback, not a disaster. City have the squad, the form and a manager who has already plotted around it. Can Maresca keep the winning run alive without him? Share your prediction in the comments, and follow ShapHub Sport Blog for full-time reaction from the Etihad.
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