New Swansea City signing Bersant Celina has revealed Graham Potter’s success in Sweden convinced him to move to Wales.
Celina, who grew up in Norway, says the transformation Potter achieved at Ostersund was a major factor in his decision to leave Manchester City on a four-year deal.
The 21-year-old striker, who is understood to have cost around £4m, spent six years at the Ethiad but will now be in contention for the Swans’ Championship opener at Sheffield United on Saturday.
His arrival capped a busy day for Potter, who also completed the signing of winger Barrie McKay from Nottingham Forest for around £500,000 on a three-year deal.
Celina said: “I saw what the manager did with Ostersund. I watched the way they played against Arsenal and, when he and the club wanted me, there was no doubt.
“I’ve been at Manchester City a long time, but it was the right time and decision.
“I have come to Swansea because I want to play regular football. I don’t think there’s any better place for me.
“When I heard that Swansea wanted me, I knew straightaway it would be the best move for me because I know the manager wants to play good football.
“There was never any doubt for me. I knew about the club’s philosophy before anybody told me about it.”
Celina played four times for Manchester City’s first team in 2016 before joining Dutch top-flight side FC Twente on loan.
He spent last season on loan with Championship club Ipswich Town, scoring eight times in 38 appearances.
McKay played 137 games for Rangers after coming through the youth ranks at Ibrox.
He joined Forest last summer, following ex-Rangers boss Mark Warburton to the City Ground, and initially thrived in the English game.
But McKay’s first-team chances dried up after Warburton was replaced by Aitor Karanka.
McKay said: “Swansea is a massive club. It was obviously a disappointment for them to be relegated and I want to help the club get back to where they should be.
“The Championship is a hard league – anyone can beat anyone – but there is no reason why we cannot do well.”
“Coming here gives me a different opportunity and a chance to play. I have watched a lot of clips of Swansea – I have done my research. I’ve met the manager and spoken to him.
“He gives a lot of confidence to his players and the way he wants to play suits my game.
“I will be aiming to play as many games as I can and assist with as many goals as I can.”
