Exclusive: Former Man City forward opens up on Etihad experience, Guardiola relationship, and embarrassing press conference | OneFootball

Now at 37-years-old, and having retired from professional football in 2023, Nolito is embarking on a new chapter in his life.

The former Manchester City forward, acquired for £13.8 million in the summer of 2016 and going on to score six goals in 30 appearances during one season with the club, dreams of maintaining a lasting connection with football and aspires to inspire future generations.

Clearly moved, Nolito begins the interview by reminiscing about the most significant moments of his time in England.

“My greatest memory with Manchester City, honestly, was the moment I signed. Yes, the signing,” the former Spain international said. “That moment was indescribable. The excitement was immense.”

He continued, “I was overjoyed that Guardiola personally reached out to me for such a prominent club. I had spent three seasons in Vigo, where I scored 39 goals. But Pep is Pep.”

Guardiola’s role has been pivotal in Nolito’s sporting career, as pointed out by the former professional himself as he explained, “He gave me the opportunity to debut for FC Barcelona’s first team and repeated the gesture in Manchester.

“He called me and placed his trust in me. Over the years, I have developed a profound affection for him and I will be eternally grateful for everything he did for me. I wish him nothing but the best.”

Eager to discuss his Manchester experience further, Nolito briefly reflects on the growth and strength of the English club.

“Given its institutional structure, the quality of its players, and the fervour of its supporters, Pep’s Manchester City is a contender for all titles in the 2024/2025 season. Alongside Real Madrid, it is the best team in the world,” he asserts with conviction.

Recalling one of his six goals under the Spanish coach, Nolito highlights one particular moment.

“I didn’t score many… but the one I remember most vividly was the header against Everton, assisted by David Silva. I remember it well because I didn’t often score headers (laughs).

“David Silva, in fact, was the player with whom I forged the strongest bonds of friendship both inside and outside the ‘citizen’ dressing room,” he adds.

With a broad smile, the former player shares one of the more awkward yet amusing anecdotes from his time at the club.

“A year brings many experiences. The anecdotes from the dressing room are private and I keep them to myself. But I can confess to a situation that occurred during a Champions League press conference. You wouldn’t believe it…

“I had my headphones on because I didn’t understand much English and still don’t. Everything was going well until I realised the headphones weren’t working. The English journalists kept asking questions, and there was no way to get the headphones to work.

“I didn’t understand a thing; it was a disaster.”

Reflecting on his new phase, Nolito adds, “Even though I’m no longer on the field, football remains an essential part of my life. I am involved in training projects for young talents and I strive to share my experience to help them achieve their dreams.

“My goal is to continue learning and contributing to the development of football in some capacity. The sport has given me so much, and now it is my turn to give back a little of what I have received.”

Concluding the interview, Nolito comments on the event framing this conversation.

“It has been an honour to participate in the Legends of Spain versus Legends of the Canary Islands match. This event, held in Lanzarote and organised by the Festivities Department of the Arrecife City Council and the event production company Improject Internacional, has been a special occasion to connect with football in a different context and share moments with old friends and colleagues.”

“I am grateful for the opportunity to relive these moments and contribute to such a meaningful cause. Football has always been a passion, and events like this demonstrate its power to unite us and celebrate what we love most,” he concludes.