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I was Pep Guardiola's first no.9 at Man City, but now I play in Spain's second tier

talksport.com, 6 May 2023, 17:45
Erling Haaland's arrival at Manchester City has been nothing short of tremendous thanks to his superb form in front of goal.

The Norwegian is dominating the scoring charts, and his form is a stark contrast to Pep Guardiola's first no.9 at City, Nolito.

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After shining for three seasons at Celta Vigo in La Liga, the Spaniard made the switch to the Premier League giants in 2016.

He joined City in the same summer as Guardiola following his departure from Bayern Munich.

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He was Guardiola's second signing after midfielder Ilkay Gundogan joined.

Nolito was brought in to play a part in the club's new-look attack, but he was unable to make any significant impact on the side.

The Spaniard scored just six goals in 30 appearances in what would prove to be his only season at the club.

It was clear the move would not pan out as many had hoped, and Nolito hinted towards a return to Spain in the final stages of the campaign.

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Speaking to Cope in May 2017, he said: "I'm crazy about returning to Spain. City keep signing players, we'll see if they'll let me leave easily.

"I hope I can leave, whether it's on loan, a transfer or whatever. I have several teams I'd prefer to join. I know Atletico, Celta, but they're things for my agent."

He also wasn't keen on England's culture or weather.

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"I have learnt very, very little English - it's very hard. Just 'tomorrow', 'good morning', 'good afternoon' and a little more," he told Onda Cero.

"My daughter's face has changed colour - it looks like she's been living in a cave."

Nolito got his wish two months later as he signed a three-year deal with Sevilla, before returning to Celta in 2020.

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After two years back at the club, he completed a free transfer to UD Ibiza, who play in the Segunda Division.

Now 36, Nolito is entering the latter stages of his career, while City's current no.9 is ripping up Premier League records.

Haaland has established himself as one of the most talented players on the planet since he joined last summer.

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The 22-year-old has scored 51 goals across all competitions in his debut campaign, with 35 of those coming in the Premier League.

His efforts in front of goal have seen him break countless records throughout the season.

Guardiola's star man has proven his quality on countless occasions, and could end up as a treble-winner in June.

Read full version: https://talksport.com/football/1416767/nolito-pep-guardiola-manchester-city-erling-haaland/
  • Bayern Munich
  • Celta Vigo
  • Erling Haaland
  • Goals
  • Guardiola
  • Ilkay Gundogan
  • La Liga
  • Man City
  • Manchester City
  • Nolito
  • Pep Guardiola
  • Play
  • Premier League
  • Spain

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