Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo has revealed he has once again been subjected to racist abuse on social media, describing the latest incident as a painful continuation of a growing problem in football.
The 26-year-old took to Instagram on Monday, posting a screenshot of abusive messages sent from an account alongside the words: “it’s started again.”
The post quickly drew attention across the football community, with renewed concern over the persistence of online racism targeting professional players.
Semenyo, who plays for Manchester City, has previously been a victim of similar abuse this season. While at AFC Bournemouth earlier in the campaign, he reported being racially abused by a spectator during a Premier League match against Liverpool after scoring twice in a 4-2 defeat.
Following that incident, police arrested and charged a man with a racially aggravated public order offence. The case is ongoing in court.
Reacting to the latest abuse, Semenyo expressed frustration and disappointment, writing simply: “It’s started again.”
Manchester City are understood to be supporting the player and providing all necessary care following the incident, while football authorities have been alerted.
The Premier League and the Football Association have both been approached for comment as investigations continue.
The case adds to a wider pattern of racist abuse directed at players this season, with multiple incidents reported across English football and investigated by the UK Football Policing Unit.
Clubs across the league have continued to condemn such behaviour, with officials calling for stronger measures to identify offenders and curb abuse on social media platforms.
Semenyo’s message has once again highlighted the emotional toll such incidents take on players, as the football community continues to grapple with racism both online and in stadiums.
