Antoine Semenyo believes Enzo Maresca’s attacking philosophy is ideally suited to his game after making an encouraging impression in the Italian’s first match as Manchester City manager.
The 26-year-old winger was one of City’s most effective attacking players during their pre-season meeting with Inter Milan in Hong Kong. Semenyo repeatedly used his pace and direct running to trouble Inter full-back Andy Diouf before playing a part in the move that led to Divine Mukasa’s goal.
City eventually lost the match on penalties, but Semenyo felt the performance provided an early indication of the football supporters can expect under Maresca, who previously managed Chelsea.
The Ghana international was quick to praise the new manager’s approach after the game, saying he had been attracted by Maresca’s ideas from the moment the former Chelsea boss was appointed.
Semenyo is particularly encouraged by the freedom Maresca is giving City’s wingers. The system allows them to take on defenders in one-on-one situations, a responsibility that fits the forward’s preference for running directly at opponents.
The former Bournemouth player also revealed that Maresca has already met players individually to outline his tactical plans and explain what he expects from them.
That personal approach has helped Semenyo understand the manager’s ideas, while the winger also sees similarities between Maresca’s philosophy and that of former City boss Pep Guardiola.
However, Semenyo believes Maresca is offering attacking players additional licence to express themselves and make a difference in individual battles. For a player whose impact is built around speed, movement and direct play, that freedom is particularly appealing.
The Black Stars winger described Maresca’s instructions as refreshingly straightforward, suggesting the new manager has made his demands clear during the early stages of his time at the club.
Maresca’s first game in charge ended in defeat in Hong Kong, although the result came via a penalty shootout after City’s encouraging display. The performance nevertheless gave Semenyo confidence that the team is beginning to adapt to the new coach’s methods.
He will now hope the attacking freedom provided by Maresca’s system can lead to another productive season when Manchester City begin their new Premier League campaign.
For Semenyo, the early signs are positive. The winger has already shown that he can thrive in a system built around direct attacking play, while Maresca’s willingness to encourage one-on-one challenges could give him further opportunities to influence matches.
City’s pre-season preparations will continue as the squad works towards the start of the Premier League season, with Maresca’s tactical ideas and the role of his wide players likely to remain a key focus.
