Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo has praised new manager Enzo Maresca's style of play as "music to my ears," highlighting the attacking intent the new boss will deploy after replacing Pep Guardiola.
Semenyo played a key part in Maresca's first game in charge, showcasing early signs of his role under the Italian. City were defeated on penalties by Inter Milan in a Hong Kong friendly, but the side demonstrated the attacking intent the new boss will deploy. Semenyo played the opening 45 minutes and gave Inter full-back Andy Diouf a torrid time with his pace and direct running, helping to set up Divine Mukasa's goal for City.
Substitute Ryan McAidoo also impressed Maresca, who said they are the "kind of wingers I love" – ones that are "very aggressive" and take on their man in "one-v-one" situations". Semenyo echoed Maresca's sentiments, saying: "When he got appointed, that was the first thing I thought about because when you've played Chelsea previously when he was there, his wide men were always high and quite free."
Semenyo's comments highlight the exciting prospect of Maresca's new style at Manchester City, which promises to be an attacking force to be reckoned with. The Italian's emphasis on pace and direct running is a departure from the more possession-based approach of his predecessor, Pep Guardiola. Semenyo's own pace and direct running have been a key factor in his success at Manchester City, and it remains to be seen how Maresca's new style will play out in the Premier League.
Semenyo's praise for Maresca's style is not the only interesting development in his comments. The forward also spoke about his own faith, saying he prays before games and at the hotel the night before a match alongside team-mates Jeremy Doku and Marc Guehi. Semenyo believes this gives them "maximum strength" and is a key part of his success as a footballer.
Maresca's appointment has been seen as a positive move by many at Manchester City, with defender Benjamin Gvardiol saying the new boss is "perfect for Man City". Semenyo's comments suggest that the forward is excited about the prospect of working under Maresca and is looking forward to seeing how his new style will play out in the Premier League.
As Manchester City look to build on their success under Maresca, Semenyo's comments offer a glimpse into the exciting prospects that lie ahead for the club. With a new style and a renewed sense of purpose, Manchester City are sure to be a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League.
Source: BBC Sports