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Manchester City have expressed their full support for Antoine Semenyo after the Ghanaian striker revealed that he had once again been subjected to 'unacceptable' online abuse. The forward took to social media to call attention to the most recent incident targeting him, prompting a quick response from both his club and football authorities.

Semenyo draws attention to ongoing abuse

As reported by Sky Sports, Manchester City have stepped in to assist Semenyo following his decision to go public about the latest wave of online harassment he has endured this season. Earlier this week, the 26-year-old shared a screenshot of an offensive comment on his social media story with the caption, "It's started again."

This incident underscores the troubling and repetitive nature of the abuse the player has faced during the current season. In reaction, City have moved quickly to offer him full support and access to professional resources to help him deal with the situation.

Previous incidents this season

At the start of the season, during a game against Liverpool, Semenyo—then playing for Bournemouth—reported being the target of abusive language from a spectator, leading referee Anthony Taylor to momentarily stop the match. Despite the incident, the Ghana international delivered a strong performance, scoring twice in a 4-2 defeat.

The case led to legal action, with Merseyside Police arresting 47-year-old Mark Mogan, who was charged with a racially aggravated public order offence. Mogan pleaded not guilty at Liverpool Magistrates' Court in December, and the trial is scheduled to begin on April 22.

Premier League issues statement of support

Alongside City’s internal support, the Premier League has also voiced its solidarity with Semenyo. A league spokesperson stated: "We are appalled at the unacceptable online abuse directed at Antoine Semenyo and have offered our support to both the player and the club. There is no place for such behaviour in football or in society. More must be done to tackle this issue, and we will continue to work with clubs, football organisations, law enforcement agencies, and social media platforms to keep this a top priority. Anyone found guilty of discriminatory behaviour will face the strongest possible sanctions, including imprisonment, football banning orders, and criminal records."

FA condemns the incident

The Football Association has also condemned the abuse Semenyo has received. In a statement, the FA said: "We are appalled at the unacceptable online abuse targeted at Antoine Semenyo and have extended our support to the player and his club. There is no room for such conduct in football or anywhere in society. It is evident that more needs to be done, and we will continue to collaborate with clubs, sporting bodies, law enforcement, and social media companies to ensure this remains a priority. Those found guilty of discrimination will face the harshest consequences, including custodial sentences, banning orders, and criminal records."

Strong season for Semenyo

Semenyo joined Manchester City in January on a five-and-a-half-year contract valued at £64 million. Across this season, he has featured in 40 matches for both City and Bournemouth in all competitions. The forward has been a key attacking presence, contributing 18 goals and six assists during the campaign.