On Sunday, Nani, the celebrated former Portugal winger, officially announced his decision to retire from professional football. This announcement marks the end of a distinguished career that saw him attain numerous accolades with Manchester United and the national team.
Nani, at the age of 38, has decided to hang up his boots, culminating a 19-year career. He initially launched his career at Sporting CP, eventually catching the eye of the legendary Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who signed him in 2007. Over his stint with Manchester United, Nani became an integral part of the squad, securing four Premier League titles and a prestigious Champions League victory.
Throughout his career, Nani played for 10 clubs across several countries, including Turkey, Spain, and the United States. In 2015, he left Manchester United to join Fenerbahçe on a permanent deal. Reflecting on his career, Nani expressed his contentment and pride in a statement, saying, ‘I’ve taken the time to make a very important decision… to stop playing as a professional player. I’m going to, as they say, hang up my boots. But I do so with a sense of duty fulfilled.’
Nani’s career was not only significant for his club achievements but also for his contributions to the Portuguese national team. He scored 130 goals in over 620 matches and was a key player in Portugal’s 2016 European Championship victory, the nation’s only title in the competition to date.
Nani recently returned to play for Estrela Amadora, the club from his birthplace, marking a sentimental conclusion to his professional journey. His career is celebrated as one filled with numerous achievements, as he himself stated, ‘I believe it was a beautiful career, a career filled with many achievements.’
Nani’s retirement brings an end to a remarkable chapter in football history. His contributions to both club and country will be remembered fondly by fans and peers alike. While the football world bids farewell to Nani the player, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Source: Espn
