Antoine Semenyo admits to “laughing” on his own during first Pep Guardiola meeting

Speaking exclusively to the All Out Football podcast, Antoine Semenyo has reflected on his first interactions with Pep Guardiola as his new manager, offering insider access into the Catalan’s personal office within the City Football Academy.

“He was just so energetic. Went into his office, soft music playing in the background, smells so nice in his office,” revealed Semenyo.

“He was like, ‘We’re happy to have you here. Continue your fine form and hopefully [we’ll] compete for the league’.”

The former Bournemouth star continued, “He’s generally relaxed. It’s when you get into meetings, that’s where he’s serious.

“I remember the first meeting I had, he was just pacing in front of the room. [I was] thinking, ‘Is this normal?’ Looking back, no-one’s laughing, so I’m on my own. He’s so passionate.”

The quest for a fourth consecutive FA Cup Final

Antoine Semenyo’s reflections come at a pivotal moment for the club, as Manchester City travel to Wembley for an FA Cup semi-final showdown against Championship flyers Southampton.

The Saints, currently fourth in England’s second division, represent the final hurdle before a potentially historic fourth consecutive FA Cup final appearance for the Citizens.

With Rodri and Ruben Dias currently recovering from respective injury issues amid the gruelling run-in, Semenyo is among the names expected to play a prominent role against the South Coast side.

Pep Guardiola press conference: Rodri injury update ahead of FA Cup semi-final against Southampton

Pep Guardiola is likely to rely on the forward’s fine form as City look to maintain their momentum in a season that could yet see them sweep all domestic honours before the manager makes a final decision on his Manchester City future.