Kerkez and Aarons react as Semenyo opens up after Bournemouth uncertainty
Milos Kerkez and Max Aarons have responded to former teammate Antoine Semenyo following his uncertain Bournemouth future.
Semenyo enjoyed his best-ever goal-scoring season yet last year with the Ghanian thriving under Andoni Iraola.
The 25-year-old scored 11 times in the Premier League, picking up five assists along the way, playing a part in 37 of the 38 games for the Cherries.
The tricky winger was also unafraid to have a shot, sitting third in the league for attempts on goal (125), only behind Mohammed Salah (130) and Cole Palmer (126), according to data from Fantasy Football Scout.
After an arduous transfer window, losing Dean Huijsen to Real Madrid and Kerkez to Liverpool, the Cherries fought hard to hold on Semenyo.
The south coast side finalised a long-term contract with the number 24, extending his contract until 2030.
Semenyo reflects on transfer speculations
In an Instagram post (25 July), the Ghanian opened up on camera about his current position with the club after this summer’s transfer focus and pre-season preparation.
Asked about his thoughts on the new five-year contract he signed, Semenyo said: “I think a feeling of being wanted was important and it’s God’s timing to be honest.
“I feel like it was the right time and yeah, just good to be back with the boys, back with the team and I’m looking forward to the season.
“So, yeah, I’m happy I signed a new contract.”
Both Kerkez and Aarons liked the post in support of their former teammate.
Focus turns to the new Bournemouth season
Football Insider verdict
The list of departures from the south coast club this summer will be cause for concern ahead of the 2025-26 season.
Holding on to Semenyo will be a big boost for the Cherries as they look to maintain the same attacking force of Evanilson, Justin Kluivert and Marcus Tavernier.
But, the absence of reinforcements will frustrate Iraola as he looks to take the club one step further by pushing into the European spots after missing out by nine points.
They have strengthened in goal as the end of Kepa Arrizabalaga’s loan was replaced by another Chelsea keeper Dorde Petrovic.
Alarmingly, the Cherries have one of the smallest squads in the league with 29 players according to Sofascore.
If Bournemouth are hit with a similar injury crisis in the 2024-25 season, the side could be in for a rough campaign.