His impact has been really good – Pep Guardiola hails Antoine Semenyo's start at Manchester City

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed delight at Antoine Semenyo's seamless adaptation to life at the Etihad, praising the Ghana forward's influence since his January arrival from AFC Bournemouth.

Speaking ahead of City's Premier League clash with Newcastle United, Guardiola highlighted the 26-year-old's immediate contribution to the squad.

"His impact has been really good," Guardiola said.

Semenyo has registered five goals and two assists in nine appearances across all competitions since joining City, but Guardiola was keen to eemphasisethat the forward's value extends beyond his growing goal tally.

"It's not just scoring a lot of goals. The strikers and the players who play up front are so important. "Not just that," he explained.

"He makes a special rhythm, his versatility to play many positions up front and in the three positions. He has it in his DNA."

Guardiola also credited the team's culture for helping new signings settle quickly.

"The guys who came adapt quickly because the guys for a long time here embrace them so quick."

A victory over Newcastle on Saturday would move City to within two points of league leaders Arsenal, with a game in hand, as they continue their pursuit of Premier League glory.

For Guardiola, Semenyo's rapid integration and all-round contribution are proving exactly what City hoped for when they secured his signature.