Howe Frustrated by Semenyo's Cup Availability

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has voiced his strong disapproval of a recent rule change that permits new Manchester City signing Antoine Semenyo to play against his team. Semenyo, a £62.5 million acquisition from Bournemouth, is eligible for the Carabao Cup semifinal first leg at St James' Park, despite having already featured for Bournemouth earlier in the competition. This is permissible under a new EFL rule that allows players to represent two different clubs in the tournament per season.

Howe expressed his dismay upon learning of Semenyo's availability, stating, "Yeah, it was nice to find out that rule had changed after finding out they'd signed him." He added, "I have to say that's one rule change I probably wouldn't be supportive of at this current moment." Despite his frustration with the rule, Howe acknowledged Semenyo's talent, calling him a "very, very good player" who scored on his debut for City.

Despite the challenge posed by Manchester City's formidable squad, Howe remains focused on winning, regardless of his contrasting managerial journey compared to Pep Guardiola. Howe, who started his career in League Two with Bournemouth, has developed a unique perspective from his climb through the football pyramid. He emphasizes that he cannot afford to feel inferior when facing Guardiola, focusing instead on the present and the immediate objective of securing victory.