Nico González Reveals What His Family Told Him That Convinced Him to Join Manchester City
When Spanish midfielder Nico González completed his transfer to Manchester City, many fans and analysts speculated about the key factors behind his decision. Was it the allure of playing under Pep Guardiola? The chance to compete in the Premier League? Or Manchester City’s reputation for developing world-class talents? While all these elements played a role, González recently revealed that his family’s advice was the ultimate deciding factor.
A Father’s Influence
One of the biggest influences on González’s career has been his father, Fran González, a former professional footballer with an impressive playing career at Deportivo La Coruña. However, Fran’s connection to Manchester City goes beyond mere admiration. He worked at the club as a coach during Pep Guardiola’s early years at the Etihad, gaining firsthand experience of the club’s structure, philosophy, and environment.
This personal connection meant that when Nico was considering his next move, his father was quick to highlight why Manchester City would be the perfect destination.
“My dad was at City for two years, and he always spoke highly of the club. He told me that if I ever got the opportunity to come here, I should take it without hesitation,” González shared in an interview. “He loved living in Manchester, he enjoyed working at the club, and he was sure I would feel the same.”
Fran’s experience at City gave Nico an insider’s perspective on what to expect. He assured his son that the environment at the club was one of the best in the world, not just in terms of footballing excellence but also in terms of player development and personal growth.
The Family’s Collective Advice
While his father’s recommendation was crucial, it wasn’t just Fran who encouraged Nico to make the move. His entire family was supportive of the decision, emphasizing the opportunity to grow under one of the best managers in football.
“My family always wanted what’s best for me, and they saw this as the right step,” González explained. “They told me that at Manchester City, I would have everything I need to become the best version of myself—both as a footballer and as a person.”
Nico’s relatives also reminded him that City’s style of play would suit him perfectly. Having been nurtured at La Masia, Barcelona’s famed academy, González possesses the technical skills and tactical intelligence that align with Guardiola’s footballing philosophy. His family pointed out that under Guardiola’s guidance, many players have taken their games to the next level.
The Guardiola Factor
Although his family’s support played a huge role, González admitted that the opportunity to work with Pep Guardiola was an equally decisive factor.
“Everyone I’ve spoken to has said that Pep is the best manager in the world. He improves every player he works with,” González said. “My family told me that if I wanted to reach my full potential, there was no better place than City.”
The Spaniard also acknowledged that his family was particularly excited about him following in the footsteps of other great midfielders who have thrived under Guardiola, including Xavi, Iniesta, Kevin De Bruyne, and Rodri.
A Dream Come True
Ultimately, González’s decision to join Manchester City wasn’t just about football—it was about trust. Trust in his father’s experience, trust in his family’s guidance, and trust in the vision that City presented to him.
“Now that I’m here, I can see what my dad meant when he spoke so highly of the club,” he said. “I’m proud to be part of this team, and I can’t wait to give my best.”
As González embarks on this new chapter, it’s clear that his family’s words of encouragement helped shape one of the biggest decisions of his career. Now, City fans will be hoping that their new midfield talent lives up to the high expectations set for him.
