Manchester City star Semenyo faces 8 weeks out, to miss Barcelona UEFA Champions League clash
Spread the word Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo is expected to spend up to eight weeks on the sidelines after suffering a knee injury, dealing a setback to the Premier League side ahead of a demanding run of domestic and European fixtures. City manager Enzo Maresca confirmed the Ghana international's expected absence on Monday, October 19, 2026, after medical scans revealed the extent of the injury sustained during Saturday's 3-2 Premier League victory over Ipswich Town.
Blueprint reports Semenyo is expected to return around December, meaning he will miss several matches, including Manchester City's highly anticipated UEFA Champions League meeting with Barcelona. The injury comes at a crucial stage of the campaign, with City seeking to maintain their strong start in the Premier League while improving their position in Europe.
Maresca provides injury update Semenyo picked up the injury after coming on as a substitute in the closing stages of the encounter against Ipswich at the Etihad Stadium. The 26-year-old entered the game in the 77th minute but was later seen struggling with the problem before making his way towards the tunnel.
Speaking ahead of City's Champions League fixture against AEK Athens, Maresca said the initial concern had been that the injury could be more serious. "After yesterday's scan, we feel much better because it's not as big as we expected," the manager said.
Now, in this moment, the most important thing for him is his recovery. The coach added that the injury was not muscular, offering some relief after the initial fears surrounding the forward's condition.
Why Semenyo's absence matters Semenyo's pace, direct running and ability to attack defenders have made him an important option in City's forward line. His versatility also gives the team additional tactical flexibility, allowing him to operate from wide attacking positions or provide cover through the middle when required.
His absence will therefore leave Maresca with fewer options as City navigate a congested fixture schedule. The Ghanaian had recorded two goals and three assists in the Premier League this season before the injury, contributing to City's attacking play during the opening weeks of the campaign.
Although City possess other attacking options, replacing Semenyo's combination of speed, physical strength and ability to carry the ball forward could prove challenging, particularly against opponents who press aggressively or defend in compact formations. Barcelona clash among key matches affected One of the notable fixtures Semenyo is expected to miss is City's Champions League encounter with Barcelona.
The meeting is among the high-profile European matches on the club's schedule, with both sides expected to compete intensely for control of possession and opportunities in the attacking third. Semenyo's absence could reduce City's options for stretching Barcelona's defence through quick transitions and one-on-one attacking situations.