Manchester City’s EFL Cup campaign has received a boost with the confirmation that new signing Antoine Semenyo will be eligible for their semi-final clash against Newcastle United. This advancement stems from a recent rule alteration within the competition,impacting player eligibility and offering adaptability too clubs navigating the demands of multiple competitions. Understanding these nuances is crucial for fans and analysts alike, especially as we head into the business end of the season.
Semenyo, 26, recently completed a £65 million transfer from Bournemouth, immediately making an impact with a goal on his debut during a dominant 10-1 victory over Exeter City in the FA Cup third round. His arrival has generated considerable excitement among city supporters, and his availability for the EFL Cup adds another dimension to Pep Guardiola’s squad options.
EFL Cup rule Change: A Deeper Look
Previously, players were typically cup-tied after featuring for a club in the EFL Cup, restricting their ability to play for another team in the same competition during the same season.However, EFL rule 6.4 now permits players to represent up to two different clubs within a single EFL Cup campaign. This change significantly alters the landscape of player movement and eligibility, particularly during the January transfer window.
Semenyo’s situation highlights the benefit of this new rule; he appeared as a substitute for Bournemouth in a second-round defeat against Brentford in August.Under the old regulations, this would have precluded him from playing for Manchester City in the competition.now,he’s a valuable asset for Guardiola as they pursue silverware.
It’s not just Semenyo who benefits. Max Alleyne, recalled from a loan spell at Watford, is also cleared to participate against Newcastle in the frist leg on Tuesday, having previously played in the competition’s first round. This demonstrates the broad impact of the rule change across various clubs and players.
Chelsea’s Marc Guiu also found himself in a similar position,having played for sunderland on loan against Huddersfield Town before returning to Chelsea before the summer transfer window closed. The rule change allowed him to remain eligible for Chelsea’s cup run.
| Player | previous Club | Current Club | EFL Cup Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antoine Semenyo | Bournemouth | Manchester City | Eligible |
| Max Alleyne | Watford (loan) |
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