Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has given a definitive update on the immediate future of star forward Antoine Semenyo, confirming the Ghana international will feature in the Cherries' upcoming Premier League clash with Arsenal. This comes amidst intense speculation linking the 25-year-old with a big-money move to Manchester City.
Transfer Speculation and a Vitality Stadium Wave
The future of Antoine Semenyo has dominated headlines in recent weeks. The attacker, who has been in scintillating form this season with nine goals and three assists for a Bournemouth side sitting 15th, has attracted serious interest from a host of top clubs including Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United.
Reports on New Year's Day suggested a move to the Etihad Stadium was imminent, with Manchester City said to have reached an agreement in principle. A release clause of £65 million in Semenyo's contract is reportedly active for the first two weeks of January, facilitating a potential transfer.
Adding fuel to the fire, Semenyo appeared to wave to Bournemouth's travelling supporters after the side's 2-2 draw with Chelsea on Tuesday, a gesture many interpreted as a farewell.
"He Is Going to Play" - Iraola's Firm Stance
Addressing the media directly on Friday, Iraola was unequivocal about Semenyo's involvement against the league leaders. "Yes, Antoine is going to play, yes," the Spanish coach stated firmly.
When pressed on whether the Arsenal match would be Semenyo's final appearance for the club, Iraola pushed back. "No, no. I think the idea is, at least, is that he is going to be available in these two home games," he explained, referencing Bournemouth's upcoming fixtures. "We have a very short turnaround and I hope he can be here for more time. I don't know what's going to happen."
"Nothing Signed" and Praise for a Top Professional
Iraola moved to clarify the current state of any potential deal, insisting that despite conversations, nothing is finalised. "No, there is nothing signed. There is nothing signed, for sure," he emphasised. "There are conversations. I understand a lot of the noise around but there is nothing signed. Antoine is a Bournemouth player."
In a clear contrast to other high-profile transfer sagas where players have downed tools, Iraola was full of praise for Semenyo's conduct. He described the forward as a "top professional" who continues to train fully and has the club's best interests at heart.
"He's playing very well, he's doing the right things," Iraola said. "He's a top guy, he wants to help his team, help his team-mates and I have no doubts that he will do his best. There are no doubts with him."
With the January transfer window now open, Semenyo's long-term future remains uncertain. However, for Bournemouth's crucial match against Mikel Arteta's Arsenal, their prized asset will be on the pitch and ready to contribute.
