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Image: Transfermarket
Every day, as new talents struggle to break into the football spotlight, old stars that graced our screens and made us fall in love with the beautiful game are sadly retiring. The latest to join the hall of football retirees is Portuguese Luís Carlos Almeida da Cunha, popularly called Nani. The former Manchester United attacker, who’s known for his cheerful disposition and footballing flare, announced the end of a stellar playing career on Sunday evening.
Nani’s football career, which spans two decades, was indeed a successful one. He traveled across seven countries, winning a hatful of individual and team trophies. The Portuguese international, who clocked 38 in November, played for his hometown club Estrela Amadora in the Portuguese top flight division this season before his retirement. His last game came against his first professional club, Sporting, on November 1st. However, it was on this Sunday that he posted the emotional tweet that’s got the football world talking.
“The time has come to say goodbye, I have decided to finish my career as a professional player. It’s been an amazing ride and I wanted to thank every single person who has helped me and supported me through the highs and lows during a career which lasted over 20 years and gave me so many unforgettable memories. Time to turn a new leaf and focus on new goals and dreams. See you soon!”
Manchester United Career
Nani’s breakout season in 2007 saw him move to Manchester United, following Cristiano Ronaldo’s footsteps. He would go on to make 230 appearances for the Red Devils, scoring 41 times.
His time at Old Trafford was hugely successful, considering all he won with the team (1 Champion’s League, 4 Premier League, and 2 League cups) over eight years.
However, his standout campaign at the club came in the 2010-11 season, when he was named United’s player of the year, won the EPL playmaker award, and made the PFA’s Premier League team of the year.
He would later leave United on loan to Sporting for the 2014-15 season before moving permanently to Fenerbache for the next season.
He also had stints in Valencia, Lazio, Orlando City, Melbourne Victory, Venezia, Adana Demirspor and then Estrela Amadora.
His achievements did not stop at his club level, as he constantly showed his readiness to give his best to the national team whenever he was called upon. This dedication saw him appear 112 times for Portugal, scoring 24 goals in the process and winning the Euros.
The Portuguese international may have quite active football, but he has promised to keep himself immersed in the game. He recently inaugurated the Nani Football Academy, which he intends to be the bridge for young talents looking to break into the football scene.
We look forward to what life holds next for the 38-year-old.
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