Manchester City sign Spain international Nolito on four-year deal

01 July 2016 07:53

Manchester City have confirmed the signing of Nolito from Celta Vigo.

The Spain forward, 29, has agreed a four-year contract to become the second arrival of Pep Guardiola's reign as manager.

His transfer represents the second time he will have worked for the Spaniard, having done so when he was at Barcelona before joining Benfica in 2011.

"Pep Guardiola is one of the best managers in the world," Nolito told City's official website.

"He knows a lot about the game and he's going to help me progress as a player and I'm sure he'll get the best out of me.

"I'll try to bring as much as I possibly can. I'll do everything that the manager asks of me, try my absolute best and do everything I can to try to repeat the form I've shown throughout my career at various clubs.

"It's just about trying to play my normal game and let's hope that I can help Manchester City to win games."

Nolito, whose real name is Manuel Agudo Duran and who has been given the number nine shirt, started each of Spain's four fixtures before their elimination from Euro 2016.

His three seasons at Celta produced the finest football of his career, and a record of 39 goals in 103 appearances.

He is considered a late developer, having not represented Spain before turning 28, and will vie for selection in the most competitive positions in City's squad.

Sergio Aguero is expected to remain their first-choice striker, meaning Nolito's rivals include, among others, David Silva, Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Sterling, Jesus Navas and Samir Nasri.

Nolito joins Ilkay Gundogan at City after the Germany midfielder became Guardiola's first signing last month.

Source: PA