Ghana international Antoine Semenyo has been cleared to feature for Manchester City in the EFL Cup, despite having already appeared in the competition earlier this season for AFC Bournemouth.
The 26-year-old forward completed a high-profile £65 million move to the Premier League champions during the winter transfer window and has wasted no time settling into life at the Etihad Stadium. Semenyo announced himself in style by scoring on his debut as City thrashed Exeter City 10-1 in the FA Cup third round.
Semenyo had previously featured for Bournemouth in the EFL Cup second round, coming off the bench during their defeat to Brentford back in August. Under older regulations, that appearance would have made him ineligible to represent another club in the same competition after a transfer.
However, newly revised EFL Cup rules introduced this season now allow players to represent up to two clubs in the competition within the same campaign. This change means Semenyo is fully eligible for Manchester City’s semi-final showdown against Newcastle United, giving Pep Guardiola another attacking weapon at a decisive stage of the tournament.
The updated regulations have benefited other clubs as well. Manchester City defender Max Alleyne, who was recalled from a loan spell at Watford, is also eligible to feature despite playing earlier rounds. Similarly, Chelsea forward Marc Guiu represented Sunderland while on loan before returning to Stamford Bridge and remains eligible under the new rules.
For City, Semenyo’s availability comes as a timely boost as they chase silverware on multiple fronts. With confidence high following his explosive debut, the Ghanaian forward could yet play a pivotal role in City’s bid to reach Wembley.
