Iraola Backs Semenyo’s Focus Amid Transfer Speculation

Bournemouth head coach Andoni Iraola has insisted Antoine Semenyo remains fully committed to the club, despite growing speculation linking the winger with a January move, including reported interest from Manchester City.

Semenyo has been in strong form for the Cherries, scoring in consecutive Premier League matches against Burnley and Manchester United. His performances have only intensified transfer rumours, with Bournemouth braced for potential interest during the winter window.

Speaking about the situation, Iraola stressed that the Ghana international has not allowed the external attention to disrupt his focus or contribution on the pitch.

“Antoine is with us, he trained very well today and he’s playing very well,” Iraola said.
“I understand there is a lot of noise around him, but my main concern is whether it affects his performances — and it isn’t.”

The Bournemouth boss underlined Semenyo’s professionalism and importance to the squad, while acknowledging that transfer decisions are often beyond a manager’s control.

“He’s very committed to the team and I hope we can keep him,” Iraola added.
“There are situations we cannot control, but right now Antoine is our player and he will continue playing for us. If you ask me personally, I don’t want to lose him.”

Iraola went on to praise the winger’s consistency throughout the season, noting that his value to the team extends beyond goals and assists.

“He’s been performing at a very high level since the start of the season, not only in the last two games where he scored,” he said.
“Even in matches where he didn’t score, he was still very important for us. We don’t only demand numbers from him — he gives us many different things.”

While recognising Semenyo’s quality, Iraola also pointed out the competitive nature of the Premier League, where attacking talent is abundant across the division.

“There are many very good wingers in this league performing at a high level,” he explained.
“Most teams have difference-makers in attacking positions, and that’s just the reality of the Premier League.”

The Spaniard reiterated that negotiations are handled by the club and the player, not the coaching staff, and that uncertainty is inevitable whenever the transfer window opens.

“As a coach, I’m not involved in negotiations,” Iraola said.
“When players and clubs reach agreements, it’s because both sides are happy. All I can say is that I hope we don’t lose him, because he is very, very important for us.”

With the January window approaching, Semenyo’s future remains uncertain, but Bournemouth can take comfort in Iraola’s assurance that the winger’s commitment and performances have not wavered.