Nico González has spoken positively about swapping Manchester City for Newcastle United in the summer transfer window, hailing the move to St James’ Park as the ‘best decision’ he could have made.
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Not every player who leaves Manchester City in search of game time looks back on the decision fondly, and there is no shortage of stars from the Pep Guardiola era who struggled to replicate their form on another stage, including some of the most decorated names.
FC Barcelona academy graduate Nico González, though, appears entirely at ease with the unexpected path he took during the recent summer transfer window, having joined Newcastle United.
The midfielder reportedly wanted to stay at the Etihad Stadium and fight for his place, but ultimately traded Manchester for St James’ Park when it became clear his minutes would be limited under Enzo Maresca.
A few months into his new life on Tyneside, Gonzalez has been reflecting happily on a switch that has clearly suited him.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has been spotted for the first time returning to the club's training ground after the guilty verdict issues by the Premier League.cityxtra.co.ukManchester City manager Enzo Maresca has been spotted for the first time returning to the club's training ground after the guilty verdict issues by the Premier League.
Enzo Maresca Spotted for the First Time Since Man City's Guilty Premier League Verdict
Nico Gonzalez: “The best decision I could have ever made”
Now, speaking during a new interview with Sky Sports, Nico González has left no doubt about how he views his transfer from Manchester City to Newcastle United during the summer market.
“It was a huge opportunity for me," said Gonzalez. "I was obviously at a top, top club, but I think Newcastle has been amazing the last years and has even more potential. So I think we’re a top team and I’m enjoying it so much!"
He continued, “Leaving Manchester City, coming here, and feeling that [welcome], it was the best decision I could have ever made. I think life here is amazing and I’m enjoying it so much!”
With a sharp defensive mind and undeniable quality on the ball, it is not hard to see how the former FC Porto midfielder has quickly endeared himself to the Toon Army - who gave him the ultimate reception upon joining the club.
Despite some ups and downs in the last few years, Newcastle have grown into one of the Premier League’s most ambitious projects since their 2021 takeover, and González clearly views himself as part of a club on the rise, rather than a player who has taken a step back.
A different measure of success
“At the end, I think the most important thing is not about you have to be in the best club,” González explained. “The most important thing is enjoying football and trying to become the best player you can.”
It is a typically grounded take from a footballer who has a reputation for level-headedness. He started Newcastle’s win at Spurs and their draw at home to Bournemouth, and was substituted through injury early in his side’s thrashing at the hands of Leeds, leaving the pitch well before their defensive collapse.
From the Etihad Stadium to Tyneside
His time in Manchester was brief but bright, having arrived from Porto in January 2025 before going on to make 59 appearances, scoring four goals - including a winning screamer in the FA Cup semi-final against Southampton - before a £52 million move carried him north in the summer.
Most City supporters will remember him fondly as a composed, unfussy midfielder who seldom let the side down across his year in Manchester and looked for a short time like the potential heir to Rodri.
Instead, he has the opportunity to be a crucial part of a young, new side - and nothing about his quotes suggests he has had any second thoughts.
Nico González’s first reunion with his former club will come on Boxing Day and a Premier League clash on Tyneside. With Manchester City’s ongoing legal struggles and Newcastle’s unpredictable form, where the two sides will be by then is anyone’s guess.