EXCLUSIVE: Nolito responds to Arsenal & Barcelona speculation

Nolito has dismissed rumours linking him with a move to Barcelona or Arsenal, insisting that he has a contract to honour with Celta Vigo.

Speaking exclusively to Goal after making a strong cameo off the bench as Spain beat Luxembourg 4-0 on Friday evening, the 28-year-old was content to have had a hand in what was ultimately a convincing victory that secured La Roja’s place at Euro 2016.

“I’ve got three-and-a-half years left on my contract at Celta, so you can imagine I’m staying,” said the forward.

“I’m content with my performance tonight because I had the chance to play 15 minutes and it went well.”

While it was a fine display from a personal standpoint, the ex-Benfica man was saddened to see team-mates David Silva and Alvaro Morata both substituted with injuries.

“I’m sad for those injuries,” he admitted. “Morata is a little messed up because he hurt his foot. It’s a shame.

“Let’s see what it’s like tomorrow. I hope that the media can tell us it’s nothing. Let’s hope Morata and Silva are both out for the least possible amount of time.”

With Spain now safely in the draw for France next summer, Nolito has pinpointed two sides he feels will be major challengers as Vincent del Bosque’s men chase a third successive crown.

“Germany and Italy are very good teams,” he noted. “We’ve still got much work to do to get to our best level.”