New Man City Signee Nico Gonzalez Explains Fatherʼs Two-Year Role in Helping Seal Transfer

Nico Gonzalez’s £50 million move to Manchester City wasn’t just a career-defining step for him—it was also a dream come true for his father.

City’s January spending spree hit £180m with Gonzalez joining Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, and Vitor Reis at the Etihad. But what makes Gonzalez’s arrival unique is that his father, Fran Gonzalez, had been eyeing this move for years.

Fran, who previously worked as an Under-18 coach at City, had always seen the club as the perfect place for his son’s development. And when City came calling, there was no hesitation.

“He was here [at City] two years. That is why he always recommended that if I had the chance, I should come here. He always talks so well about Manchester, the city, and obviously the team.”

Gonzalez visited Manchester during his dad’s time at the club and fell in love with it, making his decision to sign even easier.

“About the club, the first thing he told me is that the people and the place are amazing and the best he’s seen. He always told me that coming here would be the best thing. Even a few years ago, he always said that he wished me to play here! So now he’s so happy, and I’m proud.”

The 23-year-old midfielder arrives with impressive stats, having made 17 starts for Porto this season, scoring five goals and providing three assists.

But beyond family influence, it was the chance to work with Pep Guardiola that sealed the deal.

“When a team like Manchester City wants you—the best team in the last 10 years—you don’t have any other option but to join.”

“Obviously working with [Guardiola] will be incredible. Everyone I have talked to about him speaks so highly of him, and with him, I think I can reach my full potential and become the best player I can be.”

From Barcelona’s La Masia to Porto’s midfield engine, Gonzalez now takes his talents to Manchester, fulfilling not just his own dreams—but also his father’s long-held vision.