Antoine Semenyo has become the first Ghanaian player to be named in the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Premier League Team of the Year after an outstanding first season with Manchester City.
The 26-year-old forward established himself as one of Manchester City’s most important attacking players during an impressive campaign, earning recognition from his fellow professionals.
Semenyo made an immediate impression after joining the club, producing a spectacular debut in Manchester City’s 10-1 Emirates FA Cup victory over Exeter City on 10 January 2026.
He scored in the 54th minute and had set up another goal five minutes earlier. His display earned him the Man of the Match award as City began his time at the club with a commanding win.
Semenyo maintained that momentum three days later when Manchester City faced Newcastle United in the first leg of their EFL Cup semi-final.
He scored twice in a 2-0 victory, although one of those goals was subsequently disallowed by VAR. Erling Haaland was judged to have been offside and to have impeded Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope in the build-up.
The Ghana forward’s pace, strength and direct approach quickly made him a valuable part of Pep Guardiola’s attack. His performances throughout the season attracted widespread praise and helped secure his place among the Premier League’s leading players.
His selection is a landmark moment for Ghanaian football and further evidence of his growing standing in one of the world’s most competitive leagues. Semenyo is the only Ghanaian included in this year’s PFA Premier League Team of the Year.
Arsenal provide the largest contingent in the side, while Manchester City also have a strong presence. Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya is selected behind a defence featuring team-mates Gabriel Magalhaes, William Saliba and Jurrien Timber, alongside Manchester City’s Nico O’Reilly.
The midfield consists of Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, Arsenal’s Declan Rice and Manchester City midfielder Rayan Cherki.
Semenyo is named in a three-man forward line with Manchester City team-mate Erling Haaland and Brentford striker Igor Thiago.
PFA Premier League Team of the Year
Goalkeeper: David Raya (Arsenal)
Defenders: Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal), Nico O’Reilly (Manchester City), William Saliba (Arsenal), Jurrien Timber (Arsenal)
Midfielders: Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Rayan Cherki (Manchester City)
Forwards: Erling Haaland (Manchester City), Antoine Semenyo (Manchester City), Igor Thiago (Brentford)
