Nolito "was close" to joining Barcelona before opting for Manchester City

Nolito in action for Manchester City on August 28, 2016
© SilverHub
Nolito hopes that his decision to turn down a return to Barcelona proves to be the "best decision" in the long term, having made a good start to life at Manchester City.

Manchester City forward Nolito has revealed that he came close to joining Spanish giants Barcelona before settling for a move to the Etihad Stadium during the summer.

The 29-year-old was on Barca's books as a youngster but was only given limited chances to impress in the first team, leading to a succession of moves in La Liga.

An impressive spell at Celta Vigo had Barcelona calling again earlier this year, but Nolito - who has two goals and an assist from his first five games as a City player - believes that he made the right call in turning down his former club.

"I was close to Barcelona," he told Mundo Deportivo. "But in the end I decided to go to Manchester City. I think it was the best decision for me and my family and I am happy to play for City."

Nolito's fine start to life in the Premier League was halted by a red card picked up against Bournemouth last month, which has seen him miss the Citizens' last three domestic fixtures.

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