Antoine Semenyo insists Manchester City ‘still believe’ after first-leg defeat | OneFootball

Antoine Semenyo has insisted Manchester City still believe they can turn their European tie around despite suffering a heavy first leg defeat.

He stressed the importance of staying calm and trusting the experience within the squad after City were beaten 3-0 by Real Madrid thanks to three goals from Federico Valverde.

“We still believe,” he said. “I feel like we’ve got top players in the team who can change the game and turn it around very quickly. We just have to play our game and when we get the chance, take it.”

The forward acknowledged that scoring early in the return fixture could provide a major boost but admitted the challenge ahead will not be straightforward.

“It doesn’t matter really. Early would be great, but it’s obviously not going to be as easy as that. So we will just have to wait and see.”

Semenyo also pointed to the leadership and experience within the dressing room as key factors in helping the team reset mentally ahead of the decisive second leg.

“100%. I feel like I just said in that interview that we’ve got a lot of experienced lads, so they know what it feels like to be three nil down or losing in the first leg. Just going off them, we need to hit the reset button. Make sure we play well on Saturday and Tuesday and hopefully rectify it.”

Reflecting on the game itself, Semenyo felt the opposition capitalised on key moments rather than City suffering a complete loss of confidence.

“I wouldn’t say the confidence dipped, but they had their moments. They kept the ball really well and exploited a bit of space we had in the middle of the park. It’s obviously a bit tough, but then again that happens. It’s a top team and if you give them the chance, they will take it.”

On a personal level, the occasion also marked another significant step in Semenyo’s journey to the top level of European football.

“It’s surreal, but I also have to be sharp. As a player I’m learning on the go and have to keep on my toes no matter what. It’s just great being around world class players and it’s only making me better.”

The forward also spoke warmly about his previous club and the path that helped shape his career.

“It definitely means a lot. Bournemouth has a special place in my heart and I’m forever grateful for everyone there. My teammates as well, I love them all and still keep in contact with them. But yeah, it’s a new experience and I’ve enjoyed it.”