New £65m Signing Shines with Goal & Assist in Record-Equalling Rout – City’s Biggest Win Since 1987.

Antoine Semenyo Man City debut

What a sensational start for Antoine Semenyo at Manchester City! The Ghana international, who completed a blockbuster £65m move from Bournemouth just days ago, wasted no time announcing himself with a goal and an assist on his debut. Pep Guardiola’s side (with the manager watching from the stands due to suspension) produced a merciless display, hammering League One Exeter City 10-1 in the FA Cup third round on January 10, 2026, at the Etihad Stadium – equalling the club’s biggest-ever win (last achieved against Huddersfield in 1987).

Exeter started brightly with an early chance forcing a sharp save from James Trafford, but City quickly took control. Academy defender Max Alleyne opened his senior account in the 12th minute, poking home his first goal for the club. Rodri then unleashed a stunning long-range strike for 2-0 – his first goal since May 2024.

The first half ended 4-0 after two unfortunate own goals from Exeter’s Jake Doyle-Hayes and Jack Fitzwater, sealing the tie before the break.

The second half turned into a full-on goal fest. Rico Lewis tapped in from Semenyo’s pinpoint cross for 5-0, before the new signing showed his composure to slot home City’s sixth in the 54th minute – becoming the first player since Sergio Agüero to score and assist on debut for City.

Tijjani Reijnders curled in a beauty, Nico O’Reilly headed home, debutant Ryan McAidoo (17) added a ninth, and Lewis completed his brace late on to reach double figures. Exeter’s teenage sub George Birch grabbed a late consolation with a stunning strike in front of the traveling fans.

Pep Guardiola (suspended but approving from the stands) will be delighted with the response after recent Premier League frustrations. This ruthless performance extends City’s home FA Cup winning streak to 16 matches and provides huge momentum ahead of upcoming challenges.

For Exeter, it’s a tough day but a learning experience – their 11th straight FA Cup loss to Premier League opposition. City march into the fourth round with style.