Manchester City winger Antoine Semenyo has opened up about an unusual habit he believes has played a crucial role in his football career. Since the age of 14, the Ghanaian has been keeping a diary, documenting his thoughts, goals, and future plans.
Semenyo's journey to the pinnacle of English football has been anything but straightforward. As a teenager, he faced multiple rejections during trials before signing a professional contract with Bristol City in 2018.
The 2023 season saw him join Bournemouth, where he truly began to showcase his potential. His impressive performances caught the eye of Manchester City, who snapped up the talented winger in January 2026.
Now at 26, Semenyo has become a key player for Enzo Maresca's side, who have won their first eight matches of the season across all competitions.
In a UEFA interview ahead of their clash with Paris Saint-Germain, Semenyo discussed how his diary-keeping habit came about.
The player revealed:
As a child, I wrote down lots of random things. As I got older, I started to pay more attention to what happened to me during the day.
I often thought too much about everything, so writing gradually became a habit. I jot down what I want to achieve in the season and over the coming years. So far, it's been working well.
It all began with a simple notebook that his mother bought for him.
Semenyo recounted:
My mum got me a large notebook for homework, but I started writing all sorts of different things in it.
Sometimes it's just notes, but more often, it’s my goals. Everything I’ve written down and aimed for has come true so far. When a new idea pops into my head, I write it down and come back to it later.
In less than a year at Manchester City, the Ghanaian has bagged 13 goals in 35 appearances, including the winning strike in last season's FA Cup final.
According to Semenyo, his journey of self-improvement continues. He admits to having learned a great deal since moving to Manchester, particularly thanks to working with Pep Guardiola.
He explained:
From day one, I needed to better understand myself as a footballer. Learning to feel the rhythm of the game: when to slow down, when to speed up, when to take on a player.
Pep worked closely with me on these aspects, and that has really helped. Now I have a much better understanding of football.
The diary allows Semenyo to track his progress and revisit his past goals.
The forward added:
I play for one of the biggest clubs in the world, alongside world-class players. We’re playing some excellent football, but I continue to discover new things about myself each day.
Semenyo places particular emphasis on the challenges he faced at the start of his career.
He didn't always get game time at Newport, Bristol City, and Sunderland, but he believes those periods made him mentally stronger.
The Ghanaian stressed:
All of that has made me resilient. I have a strong character, and obstacles can't deter me from my path.
I always stay focused on my goals. If I really want something, I will achieve it sooner or later.
When you’re not playing and going through tough times, it's essential to maintain mental stability. Without it, it’s all too easy to break.
Now, Semenyo is preparing for yet another significant challenge. On Wednesday, Manchester City will host PSG in the Champions League.
Maresca's team heads into the match on the back of eight consecutive victories, including a stunning 3-0 win over Liverpool at Anfield.
