'We pushed a lot to keep him' â?? Bournemouth coach on Semenyo's departure

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has spoken about the club's determined but ultimately unsuccessful attempt to keep star forward Antoine Semenyo, following what was likely the Ghanaian's final act in a Cherries shirt.

Semenyo scored a dramatic 90th-minute winner to secure a 3-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday night, before departing the pitch to a raucous ovation from the home supporters.

In a poignant post-match reflection, Iraola acknowledged the imminent transfer while heaping praise on the departing player. "I think he has earned all this. I am very happy for him because we know he is a top player but especially a top person," the Spanish coach said.

Iraola then revealed the extent of the club's efforts to retain their top scorer. "We pushed a lot to keep him until the last second here," he admitted, highlighting the internal battle to retain his services. The manager expressed satisfaction that Semenyo's potential farewell was marked by such a perfect moment, stating, "I think it is fair that he leaves with the feeling he has had at the end, with the sub, with the reception of the supporters."

The match-winner against Spurs was Semenyo's 10th Premier League goal of the season and his 30th overall since joining Bournemouth, underlining his status as a pivotal figure.

The forward is now widely expected to complete a high-profile move to former Premier League champions Manchester City in the coming days, bringing an end to a prolific and memorable chapter at the Vitality Stadium.

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