Video Analysis: This Is Why Liverpool Seriously Want Antoine Semenyo | OneFootball

Liverpool and the Antoine Semenyo Question: A January Window Decision

As the January transfer window looms, speculation once again swirls around Liverpool and potential reinforcements. While much of the noise is often “people chasing clicks,” as stated in the video by Panenka LFC, one name persists with increasing credibility: Antoine Semenyo of Bournemouth.

With the highly respected David Ornstein reporting that Semenyo has a “real chance” of leaving Bournemouth this winter, and with Liverpool reportedly among the interested clubs, this rumour demands attention. Notably, it was emphasised on Panenka LFC that “the player himself is said to be more eager to join us than other Premier League clubs.”

Semenyo’s Versatility Could Fill Gaps in Liverpool’s Attack

The primary appeal of Semenyo, according to Panenka LFC, is his positional versatility. “Whether he plays on the right, on the left, closer to the middle or completely out wide,” said the host, “Semenyo can move across different positions without any problem.” This is further backed up by analysis of his heat maps, showing an “active presence on both sides of the pitch.”

Crucially, the analysis draws comparisons with current options. “Salah is a pure right winger… Gakpo usually feels more comfortable on the left,” they noted. Semenyo’s ability to function effectively on either flank fills a tactical void in Arne Slot’s forward line.

A Two-Footed Threat Who Has Already Hurt Liverpool

One of the standout aspects of Semenyo’s profile is his rare two-footedness. “Semenyo has scored six Premier League goals so far this season… three with his right foot and three with his left,” the analysis explained. Importantly, “two of those were the brace he got against us at Anfield in the opening match of the season.”

Panenka LFC highlighted the efficiency and decisiveness of his finishing: “He takes the shot instantly with his left foot and does it with his very first touch… it catches the goalkeeper off guard.” In another instance against Liverpool, “he meets the ball with his left foot and sends it past Alisson before anyone can close him down.”

Why Liverpool May Need a One-Versus-One Monster

Dribbling prowess was a recurring theme. “We simply do not have many aggressive wide dribblers in the team,” they observed, noting that “Salah has lost a bit of that pure explosiveness” and younger talents like Rio “are still raw.” In contrast, Semenyo is “a one versus one monster,” described as “strong, explosive, quick on the ball and constantly unpredictable.”

Photo: IMAGO

The video offered multiple examples to illustrate this. In a standout moment, Semenyo “bursts past both [defenders] and reaches space to deliver a cross… the way he created the opening… is exactly what makes him so dangerous.” Against Manchester City, he showcased his balance, control and ability to shift direction with ease, “driving directly at the defender and forcing him to retreat.”

Should Liverpool Make a Move in January?

The episode concludes with a balanced view. “Spending £65 million on another forward in January… might not be the best choice,” they admitted, pointing to the club’s other needs in midfield and defence. However, they also conceded that “the more you look at Semenyo, the more you start to understand why Liverpool might be tempted.”

Semenyo “offers something very different from what we currently have… he is two-footed, a constant goal threat and works hard for the team.” The video rightly posed the strategic question: “Should Liverpool buy Semenyo?” and left it to the fans to weigh in.

What is clear is that Antoine Semenyo is more than a passing rumour. As Panenka LFC put it, “He is someone worth keeping an eye on.”