Antoine Semenyo’s meteoric rise in European football has not only rewritten his career trajectory but has also drawn attention to the family foundation behind his success—particularly his mother, Dela Dzebu. Beyond the headlines of his record-breaking move to Manchester City, curiosity has grown around the woman widely credited with shaping his discipline, resilience, and character.

Ghana’s powerful forward sealed a historic transfer to Manchester City, reportedly worth around £65 million, capping a journey defined by patience, setbacks, and steady progress. The move elevates Semenyo to one of the most demanding stages in world football and marks a major milestone in his career.

Semenyo completes historic Man City switch

Born in London, Semenyo signed a long-term deal with the Premier League champions after three productive seasons at AFC Bournemouth. His move to the Etihad Stadium came barely 48 hours after a dramatic farewell, when he struck a stoppage-time winner against Tottenham Hotspur—an emphatic final statement in a Bournemouth shirt.

In 110 appearances for the Cherries, Semenyo registered 32 goals and 13 assists, according to Transfermarkt, numbers that underline his growing influence and explain City’s decisive move. He will wear the number 42 jersey, famously donned by club legend Yaya Touré during his trophy-laden spell.

“I am so proud to have joined Manchester City,” Semenyo said in quotes reported by BBC Sport.

“They have set the highest standards. It’s a club with world-class players, world-class facilities and one of the greatest managers ever in Pep Guardiola.

“I still have so much room to improve, so being here at this stage of my career is perfect. It’s a real privilege.”

The celebrations around the transfer contrast sharply with the uncertainty of his teenage years. At just 15, failed trials at Arsenal, Tottenham and Millwall left Semenyo questioning his future. Loan spells at Bath City, Newport County and Sunderland followed, each shaping his mentality before a return to Bristol City and a move to Bournemouth put him firmly back on track.

Now, he prepares to test himself on the Champions League stage under Pep Guardiola.

Meet Dela Dzebu: the quiet force behind the success

Central to Semenyo’s journey is his mother, Dela Efua Dzebu, affectionately known as Madam Dela. Though she has largely remained out of the spotlight, her influence has been profound—balancing firm discipline with warmth and constant encouragement.

Semenyo has often recalled fond memories of time spent cooking with his mother and playing football with his father and brother, moments that helped mould both his character and work ethic.

According to reports by BBN Times, Dela Dzebu is a healthcare professional of French-Ghanaian descent and a former actress who appeared in 1990s films such as Step Dad and Lovin You, as noted by Ibrahim Saanie Daara.

Her recent appearance at Mawuli Senior High School’s 75th anniversary celebration sparked admiration on social media, with many praising her youthful looks and graceful presence. Her attendance at Semenyo’s Manchester City unveiling further highlighted the quiet but pivotal role she has played in nurturing one of Ghana’s brightest football talents.

Semenyo honours his father

In December 2025, Semenyo also made time to celebrate his father, Larry Semenyo, who turned 60 in London.

Dressed in white, the City forward was joined by his younger brother, Jai, as they danced and shared the moment with their father to Fameye’s song Very Soon—a reminder that family remains central to his story.