Pep Guardiola is one of the main reasons why Nolito turned down interest from Barcelona to join Manchester City this summer, according to the player.
Nolito sealed a £13.8-million transfer from Celta Vigo on July 1, becoming Guardiola's second signing after midfielder Ilkay Gundogan.
The 29-year-old confirmed that Barcelona had offered him a chance to return to the club where he made his top-flight debut during the 2010-11 campaign.
But he eschewed Barcelona's interest because he wanted to work with Guardiola again. It was the Spanish boss who promoted Nolito to the first team from Barcelona's B side, although he only made two La Liga appearances for the Blaugrana before leaving.
"The truth is I enjoyed working with him in Barcelona even though it wasn't much time. It's a reason for me to come here but not the only one," Nolito said, according to the Guardian's Jamie Jackson. "But it was also about City, they have a great team, it's a great project, they got to the semi-finals of the Champions League last season and the truth is I will try to help this club achieve great things."
Nolito also made the move on the basis that he would play a large role in City's plans for the upcoming season. He's coming off an impressive three seasons with Celta Vigo, where he scored a respectable 39 goals in 100 league appearances.
He started in each of Spain's four matches at Euro 2016, further raising his international profile.
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He will now have to battle with Raheem Sterling, Kevin De Bruyne, Jesus Navas, David Silva, and Samir Nasri for regular minutes at the Etihad. Sergio Aguero is a shoo-in at the centre-forward position.
"I thought it was the best decision for me and my career. I have come to the Premier League to play with City and under Pep Guardiola, who will play me in the first team, and I am very happy with the decision I took."
It's the second time Nolito has rejected Barcelona in favour of first-team football. He left the club for Benfica on a free transfer in 2011.
"I have had luck to play with (Lionel) Messi a bit but what I want in life is to enjoy my football, play football, and be happy," the Spanish winger said. "I took the decision. I was fortunate to play in Barcelona, although not much in the first team, and now I am excited about playing at City and I will try to do great things here.
"I wish Barcelona all the best. I am very proud of Barcelona's interest, but now I am here and I think I made the best decision to come here."