By Kwame Bediako
Antoine Semenyo’s £65 million transfer from AFC Bournemouth to Manchester City has taken an unexpected turn beyond football, with the Ghanaian forward becoming a talking point in the UK Parliament.
Lawmakers this week cited the 26-year-old as an example of professionalism and character, highlighting how modern footballers can positively influence society off the pitch.
Semenyo completed his high-profile move to the Etihad Stadium earlier this month, a switch that significantly strengthens Pep Guardiola’s attacking options.
While the deal itself generated headlines across the Premier League, it was the manner of his departure from Bournemouth that drew national attention, rather than the footballing implications alone.
During parliamentary proceedings on Thursday, January 15, 2026, Tom Hayes, the Labour MP for Bournemouth East, praised Semenyo’s conduct following his exit.
Addressing the House, Hayes described the forward as “a superstar on the pitch and a gentleman off it,” referencing a rare four-page advertisement Semenyo personally funded in the Bournemouth Echo to thank supporters for their backing during his time at the club.
The gesture stood out in an era where player departures are often marked by controversy or brief social media posts.
Hayes used Semenyo’s example to underline the importance of positive role models, arguing that such behaviour reflects values young people should see more often away from digital platforms.
He linked the moment to his support for legislation aimed at raising the minimum age for social media use to 16.
