Why Arsenal should consider Antoine Semenyo

Bournemouth attacker showed courage and class after being racially abused - here's why Arsenal would offer Cherries player a welcoming haven in North London 

Last night’s Premier League clash against Liverpool was stained by a deeply disturbing incident, when Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo was subjected to racial abuse from a so-called supporter.

The 25-year-old London-born forward showed incredible composure, responding with professionalism and focus to score twice at Anfield, despite the dreadful abuse.

Racism has no place in football or society, and Semenyo’s bravery in continuing and performing at the highest level deserves full respect.

At present there is no suggestion Arsenal are pursuing him, and he has just recently signed a new contract, but Semenyo has all the qualities to be an outstanding addition

Here's why Arsenal would offer Cherries player a welcoming haven in North London 

This summer, much of the conversation among Arsenal supporters has centred on the need for another option on the left wing.

Confidence in Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard has wavered, and while a host of names have been linked, little has come close to materialising.

Real Madrid’s Rodrygo Goes has been mentioned, though a deal has never felt realistic given the finances involved. Eberechi Eze, a player admired by Arsenal, is more of an advanced midfielder than a winger, while Rafael Leão has been spoken about largely through fan discussion rather than credible links.

However, Semenyo is a player who deserves far more attention. 

The Cherries forward has quietly built a reputation as one of the most effective wide players outside the traditional top six, and his performances last season underlined his growing quality.

Semenyo would bring several attributes that Arsenal currently lack. Most notably, he is comfortable using both feet.

That two-footedness adds a level of unpredictability which makes life difficult for defenders. Unlike Martinelli, who is heavily reliant on his stronger foot, Semenyo can attack either side, cross early and maintain the tempo of an attack. With a centre forward like Viktor Gyökeres to aim at, this could prove invaluable.

Equally impressive is his directness. Semenyo is a player full of confidence who thrives when running at defenders, often leaving them exposed.

His willingness to drive into space and occupy dangerous areas would suit an Arsenal side blessed with elite passers such as Martin Ødegaard, Declan Rice and Myles Lewis-Skelly, all of whom could supply him with the service to excel.

His output also speaks for itself.

Last season, Semenyo recorded 11 goals and five assists in the Premier League which was more than both Martinelli and Trossard managed.

Achieving that in a Bournemouth side fighting to establish itself only highlights how much his numbers could improve surrounded by world-class players.

Versatility is another strength. Semenyo is comfortable on either wing, providing Mikel Arteta with tactical flexibility. He could allow Bukayo Saka a rest by playing on the right, or slot into the left flank if Madueke is preferred elsewhere.

Finally, he is Premier League proven.

While the idea of signing a player like Rodrygo may excite, adaptation is never guaranteed. Semenyo would require no bedding-in period and would be a more affordable, ready-made solution.

Of course, it is our duty, as a platform and as football fans, to speak out against such disgusting behaviour.

Which is why living in such a diverse and multicultural city like London would offer Semenyo a supportive environment in which he could thrive both on and off the field.

In a market where value is hard to find, he might just be the kind of signing Arsenal cannot afford to overlook.

Last night at Anfield will stay with me forever - not because of one person's words, but because of how the entire football family stood together.To my @afcbournemouth teammates who supported me in that moment, to the @LiverpoolFC players and fans who showed their true… pic.twitter.com/6sNyv3vROK

— Antoine Semenyo (@semenyo924) August 16, 2025