In a poignant gesture that bucks modern trends, footballer Antoine Semenyo has demonstrated the enduring power of print by taking out a full-page advertisement in a local newspaper to bid farewell to his former club.
A Classy Farewell in Print
The 26-year-old winger, who has completed a £62.5 million transfer to Manchester City, placed his message of thanks on page 15 of Saturday's edition of the Bournemouth Echo. His move to the Premier League champions is on a substantial five-and-a-half-year contract.
In the advert, Semenyo wrote a simple but heartfelt note: 'To all the fans at AFC Bournemouth, thank you for all the memories, I wish you all the best.' He signed it with his name, providing a tangible and traditional keepsake for supporters.
This act of gratitude caps off a period of widespread praise for the Ghanaian international's conduct. His professionalism throughout the transfer saga has been highlighted, especially as he scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner against Tottenham Hotspur in what proved to be his final appearance for the Cherries.
Top Professionalism Earns Universal Praise
Semenyo's attitude and performance have drawn commendations from all quarters. His now-former manager at Bournemouth, Andoni Iraola, was effusive in his praise.
'That was a lovely moment for Antoine,' Iraola said. 'Sometimes football gives you these things. He has been top, he has given everything and been committed until the end. I think it is good football gives him back this moment. A top professional. We are not only losing an incredible player but one of the best players I have ever coached.'
Teammate Marcus Tavernier echoed the sentiment, suggesting the fairytale nature of his departure. 'Everyone reads the media. There is no better way for it to go,' Tavernier stated. 'That was the type of stuff you write in movies. No man deserves it more than him.'
BBC pundit Danny Murphy also commended the player, saying: 'He deserves great credit for how he has conducted himself, and to score a winning goal on his last appearance - what a way to go.'
A Coveted Talent Secured by City
Semenyo's impressive form made him one of the most sought-after players in the league. After details of his release clause emerged, he attracted serious interest from other top clubs including Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United.
His final journey from the south coast to Manchester was undertaken in style, flying out on a black private jet at around 7.18am on Thursday. Manchester City have agreed to pay Bournemouth an initial fee of £62.5 million, with additional add-ons and a sell-on percentage included in the deal.
The forward's statistics underscore why he was so coveted. This season alone he has netted 10 Premier League goals in 21 appearances, a tally bettered only by Erling Haaland and Igor Thiago. This follows a strong previous campaign where he scored 13 times in 42 games.
Upon arriving at the Etihad Stadium, Semenyo expressed his pride and ambition. 'I am so proud to have joined Manchester City,' he said. 'I have watched City over the last decade under Pep Guardiola... They have set the highest of standards. My best football is yet to come, I am sure of that. The Etihad is my new home.'
Semenyo's departure, marked by a classy newspaper farewell, leaves Bournemouth without a key player but with significant funds and the memory of a professional who gave his all until the very end.
