Portuguese football star Nani has officially retired from football. This man is 38 and made his choice public on social media, announcing the end of a more than 20-year career. He achieved great success with clubs and the Portuguese national team during this time
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Nani Announces Retirement From International Football
Nani thanked everyone who supported him throughout his journey in his farewell message. He also shared his excitement about the future.
He wrote:
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
Career Beginning
Nani was born on 17 November 1986 in Amadora Portugal. He grew up in a tough neighborhood but found joy and hope in football. He showed natural talent and a passion for the game from a young age.
He began playing for Real Massamá before joining Sporting CP youth academy. There he developed his skills and quickly gained attention for his performances.
Nani played with Sporting CP senior squad for only two seasons before being bought by Manchester United. The move was a huge step in his career which makes him one of the brightest young talents in Europe.
Success At Manchester United
Nani played for Sir Alex Ferguson and was a member of Manchester United great squad. He created an effective combination with players like as Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney.
Nani won many trophies during his seven years at the club. These includes four Premier League championships and the 2008 UEFA Champions League . His quickness and talent helped him become a fan favorite.
He was also known for his spectacular goals and unique acrobatic celebrations. Nani faced tough competition and some challenges but his determination helped him succeed.
International Career And Glory
After leaving Manchester United, Nani’s football journey took him around the world. He returned to Sporting CP on loan and maintained his impressive form.
He then played for different clubs in several countries. This clubs are Fenerbahçe in Turkey, Valencia in Spain, Lazio in Italy, and Orlando City in the US.
He returned to his roots by joining Estrela da Amadora. The team is based in the neighborhood where he grew up. This homecoming was seen as a special moment in his career.
Nani was also a star for Portugal’s national team. He has 112 caps and the fifth-most capped player in country history. He had 24 goals and 23 assists.
The UEFA European Championship victory for Portugal was one of Nani’s biggest triumphs. He, along with Cristiano Ronaldo, was important in the team’s victory. This victory was Portugal first major international trophy and a historic moment for the nation.
Retirement Decision
After his last game in November of this year, Nani made this decision to take retirement. This game for Estrela da Amadora was against Sporting CP.
The recent death of his father is believed to have influenced his decision to retire. Other personal matters also played a role in his choice to step away from the game mid-season.
In his retirement message, Nani reflected on the challenges of a long career. He did not give many details but his words showed peace with his decision and excitement for the future.
Tributes From The Football World
Many people and organizations paid tribute to Nani after his announcement. Fernando Gomes, president of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), acknowledged his appreciation for Nani contributions to Portuguese football.
Gomes said:
At this moment of farewell, I want to express my deep gratitude to Nani for everything he has done for Portuguese football. Over more than a decade, Nani not only represented our national team with great pride and dedication, but also became a reference for all football fans in Portugal
He called Nani a model of perseverance and praised his ability to inspire young athletes.
Manchester United also shared a message on social media. The club posted along with a photo of one of Nani’s famous celebrations:
A player we fell head over heels for. Enjoy your retirement
Gomez also added:
Nani was not only a player of excellence, but also a model of perseverance, inspiring generations of young athletes in Portugal and around the world.
