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Nolito is ready to turn his back on Manchester City after being frozen out by boss Pep Guardiola, writes David McDonnell in Vigo.

Signed from La Liga side Celta Vigo for £13.8million last summer, Spain international Nolito has made just one start so far this year — the FA Cup tie away to Huddersfield.

The 30-year-old forward rebuffed interest from Barcelona to move to England and made a flying start with three goals in his first four games for City, but is now hinting at a return home after becoming disillusioned with his lack of action under countryman Guardiola.

(Image: Getty)

“I'm not as happy as I would like, I've not played much since December," said Nolito. "We know that in football this kind of thing can happen. The only thing I can do is keep working hard and keep fighting.

“I know [that Celta fans want him back], because of the messages they keep leaving me. We will see what happens. I have two years left on my contract. The only thing I want to do is play, and if I can’t do it here I will try to do it [elsewhere] and be happy.

"Now I just want to end the season, and disconnect.

(Image: Action Images via Reuters)

"The truth is not playing is making it a bit hard for me.

"In Vigo, I was very happy - very. Celta gave me three of the best years of my career. My two daughters were born in Galicia, and I have good friends there. It will always be my home.”

On Thursday night's Europa League semi-final first leg between Celta and Manchester United in Vigo, Nolito is backing his former team-mates to shock Jose Mourinho's Reds.

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“There are many ways for them to beat United," he said. “United have a great team, but Celta do too. They have to concentrate and take the chances they get.

“Celta can make it to the final. They are also able to win at Old Trafford next week. Celta like possession, to keep the ball, but United like to play on the counter-attack, and this is where they can hurt you.

“It would be incredible if they [Celta] won the Europa League and get to the Champions League. It would be a great achievement for the club.”