Nico Gonzalez Reveals Father's Manchester City Link Inspired Move

Photo : AFP

Nico Gonzalez, the new player for Manchester City, said that his father’s connection to the club helped him decide to leave Porto and join the team. The 23-year-old signed with Manchester City on the last day of the transfer window for £49.9 million ($62.5 million).

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His father, Fran, worked as a coach at Manchester City’s academy when Nico was younger. Nico said that his father always told him that if he got the chance, he should play for Manchester City. “He worked here for two years,” Nico said. “That’s why he always said that if I had the chance, I should come here. He loved the city and the team. He always told me I’d enjoy it here, and when I visited, I liked the city too.”

Nico’s father has always supported him in making good decisions about his football career. “He has always said that coming here would be the best for me. A few years ago, he even said that he hoped I would play for Manchester City,” Nico said. “Now, he’s so happy and proud.”

Before joining Porto in 2023, Nico played for Barcelona’s famous La Masia academy, making 37 appearances for Barcelona. He later played on loan for Valencia before moving to Porto. Now that Manchester City is missing a key player, Rodri, due to injury, Nico might be asked to play soon.

Nico feels that his style of play fits well with Manchester City’s way of playing. “I grew up at La Masia, and since I was young, I always played in a similar way to Manchester City. In Portugal, I worked on improving my skills and the speed of the game, which has made me a better player. I hope the fans see a player who can play with the ball and attack.”

Before moving to Manchester City, Nico was having a great season with Porto, scoring seven goals in 29 games. “It was my best season so far, and it wasn’t easy to leave Porto and say goodbye to people who were like family to me,” Nico said. “But coming to Manchester is a great chance for me to grow, and I know it’s the best decision for me.”

Nico believes his improved intensity will help him play well in the Premier League. “I’ve worked on improving my speed, and I hope it will help me in the Premier League,” he said.

Now, with Manchester City needing help to improve, Nico is ready to show his skills and help the team.