Why is Antoine Semenyo Not Playing in Man City vs Bodø/Glimt Champions League Today?

As Manchester City gears up to face Norwegian champions FK Bodø/Glimt in the UEFA Champions League, excitement builds around the club's blockbuster January signing. Yet fans checking the team sheet will spot a glaring absence. Is Antoine Semenyo playing today? No, the high-profile winger fresh off his 64 million pound move from Bournemouth will not feature at Aspmyra Stadion. Why is Antoine Semenyo not playing? He's ineligible for this league phase match due to UEFA rules.

Why Is Antoine Semenyo Not Playing? UEFA Rules Explained

Why is Antoine Semenyo not playing boils down to rigid UEFA squad registration rules, not injury or fitness issues. League Phase squads were finalised in September 2025, well before Semenyo signed at the Etihad. Since he wasn't on Manchester City's original list submitted to Europe's governing body, he cannot play these remaining fixtures.

This temporary "cup-tied" status only affects the current stage. Clubs can update lists after the winter window closes, ahead of knockouts. Semenyo remains fully fit for domestic games like the Premier League and FA Cup, where he's already impressed, but he will sit out of this European tie.

When Can Fans See Semenyo in Champions League Action?

If you are wondering, "Is Antoine Semenyo playing today?" for league phase games, the answer is no. But relief is coming soon for fans eager for the Ghanaian star's European debut. Manchester City can register up to three new players for the February Round of 16. With their massive investment and Semenyo's sizzling form, he's a lock for the knockout squad list.

Semenyo's absence hits Manchester City amid turmoil after a 2-0 derby loss to Manchester United, intensifying pressure on Pep Guardiola as they trail Arsenal. Pundit Richard Keys sensationally predicts that Guardiola's exit is "nailed on" by season's end or even this week with Enzo Maresca as emergency replacement for Wolves. Despite Guardiola's denials, the defeat and rumours darken the Bodø/Glimt trip; a win is crucial to stabilise.

Other Key Absentees for Man City

Pep Guardiola has more headaches beyond why is Antoine Semenyo not playing. The squad is depleted for the Norway trip. Defenders Josko Gvardiol, John Stones, and Ruben Dias are injured, exposing the backline. Up top, Omar Marmoush, who has returned from AFCON and is a part of the travelling squad but is not likely to start, while Savinho is also missing due to injury. Like Semenyo, new signing Marc Guehi will also not be available for Manchester City's UCL fixture due to registration rules.

Is Antoine Semenyo playing today? Not yet, but his Champions League wait ends soon.