New Delhi: The Portuguese star Luis Nani has decided to hang up his boots at the age of 38. He formally announced his decision through a video on social media on Sunday. Born in Amadora, Nani began his journey at Sporting CP’s academy in 2003 and concluded his career with his boyhood club, Estrela Amadora, making a final appearance in Portugal’s top flight on November 1.
The 38-year-old is well known for his flair, speed and versatility, leaving behind a remarkable legacy filled with silverware. He wrote on social media: “The time has come to say goodbye, I have decided to finish my career as a professional player.” He ended the message with, “Time to turn a new leaf and focus on new goals and dreams. See you soon! Obrigado. Thank you. Gracias. Grazie. Tesekkurler.”
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… pic.twitter.com/3ZuSMrPHcR
— Nani (@luisnani) December 8, 2024
Cristiano Ronaldo also commented on Luis Nani’s Instagram post, congratulating him on his illustrious career. Both have won seven major titles during their times as teammates for Manchester United and Portugal.
🚨 Cristiano Ronaldo to Luis Nani in his retirement post via instagram:
“Congratulations Nani 👍.” pic.twitter.com/mnwwKLQ7nl
— TCR. (@TeamCRonaldo) December 9, 2024
Nani’s achievements
Like Ronaldo, the Portuguese winger left Sporting CP to join Manchester United in June 2007 for a fee of approximately £21 million. Over his time at Old Trafford, he made 230 appearances and netted 41 goals.
His tenure at United was marked by significant successinclude several major titles including four Premier Leagues and one Champions League trophy. In the summer of 2024 he returned to his hometown and joined second-division club Estrela da Amadora.
The 2010-11 season was a highlight of Nani’s United career. He also earned a spot in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year and led the league with 14 assists.
In 2014-15, Nani returned to Sporting Lisbon on loan before making a permanent move to Fenerbahee the following season. Over the years, he also played for Valencia, Lazio, a third stint with Sporting, Orlando City, Venezia, Melbourne Victory, Adana Demirspor, and finally for Estrela Amadora.
Nani has been a stalwart for the Portuguese national team also, having earned an impressive 112 caps and netted 24 goals. His most significant achievement came in 2016 when he played a pivotal role in Portugal’s first-ever European Championship triumph.
What next for Nani?
The Portuguese talisman Luis Nani will stay closely connected to the sport even after retiring from his playing career. He plans to focus on projects such as the Nani Football Academy in Fernao Ferro. Additionally, the 38-year-old holds a minority stake in the Portuguese lower-division club Sintrense SAD.
Portuguese star Luis Nani retires at 38, leaving a legacy of flair, silverware, and 112 Portugal caps. After a 20-year long illustrious career, he now focuses on his academy. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
