Antoine Semenyo has explained why he chose to sign for Man City over Manchester United during last month’s transfer window.
Manchester United had a quiet January transfer window, with no major incomings or outgoings being conducted amid a month that saw three head coaches take charge of their first team.
At the start of the winter window, with Rúben Amorim at the club, United attempted to sign Antoine Semenyo, who eventually joined Manchester City instead.
Then, once Amorim was dismissed, Darren Fletcher took charge of the squad for two games, and the starting XI was switched back to a back four, which Michael Carrick continued.
With United already lacking a classic left-winger, an injury to Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu saw questions as to whether the side would delve into the market to find anyone to cover for the position, but one never came.
Why Semenyo signed for City
In hindsight, if United had secured Semenyo, that would have been an almost-perfect transfer for the club amid their switch to a back four with traditional wingers. Speaking recently, Semenyo explained that the three reasons he chose City over United were the quality of the coach, players, and system.
“I was very quiet, let’s say that; praying a lot, making sure I made the right decision, and this was right,” Semenyo explained when asked about his January window, via City_Xtra.
“The environment is very important; you want to make sure the environment is healthy with top coaches, top players. That’s what drew me to Man City.
“I’m definitely enjoying it. I’m in a system that allows me to get through on goal and shoot in the box. That’s what I want as a striker or winger. I’m enjoying it.”
United’s summer is already lining up
Various reports have suggested that while the club could still look to sign another attacking player in the summer, much of their investment will happen in midfield.
Read More: Gary Lineker makes strong Bruno Fernandes claim amid excellent Manchester United form
If the club can secure Champions League football, this would add a signifiacnt amount of cash to their transfer reserves, and it’s expected that the club will try for one, if not two, of Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, or Elliot Anderson – all expected to have major transfer fee demands.
While Baleba has made it known he wants to sign for United, the situation and futures of the other two are not as clear.
There is also the question of whether new defenders must be rolled in. Harry Maguire is out of contract in the summer, and there is yet to be a new deal on the horizon. At the same time, Tyrell Malacia is expected to leave. So, a new centre-back and left-back may be considered.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 14:00 pm (GMT) on the United View YouTube channel.