Nani announces surprise retirement from football

The announcement was unexpectedly made on social media this Sunday. At the age of 38, he returned to Portugal to play for Estrela da Amadora.

"The time has come to bid farewell; I have made the decision to conclude my career as a professional footballer.

It has been an incredible journey, and I wish to express my gratitude to all those who have supported me through the various challenges and triumphs of a career spanning over 20 years, filled with countless unforgettable moments. It is now time to embark on a new chapter and pursue new aspirations and dreams. Until we meet again," Nani stated on social media.

At 38 years old, Nani has chosen to retire from football. The timing of this announcement was surprising, particularly as the Portuguese international had just returned to Portugal at the beginning of this season to join Estrela da Amadora, with whom he had a contract lasting until June 2025.

During this season, he participated in 10 matches and scored one goal. His final official appearance was notably symbolic: he played for 38 minutes at Alvalade against Sporting, the club where he began his career in the youth ranks.
Luis Carlos Almeida da Cunha is widely recognized in the football community as Nani. Born in Amadora, he began his football journey at Real SC before advancing to Sporting's academy.

He made his first-team debut in 2005 under the management of Jose Peseiro, who introduced him in the 72nd minute of a Champions League qualifying match against Udinese.

As a swift winger, he distinguished himself at Alvalade, where he began to be compared to Cristiano Ronaldo. These comparisons intensified when, in 2007, CR7 transferred to Manchester United, following in Nani's footsteps.

Under the guidance of Sir Alex Ferguson, he emerged as one of the most unpredictable wingers, adept at outmaneuvering defenders with his feints and celebrating his spectacular goals with a signature flip that thrilled fans. He achieved significant success, winning the league title four times, one Champions League title, four Community Shields, two League Cups, and a Club World Cup.

After spending seven years in England, he made his first return to his homeland in 2014 when he was loaned to Sporting. This was succeeded by stints at Fenerbahce, Valencia, and Lazio, culminating in his third and final tenure at Alvalade during the 2018/19 season.

Additionally, he had a spell in Major League Soccer with Orlando City, returned to Italy to play for Venezia, and ventured to Australia with Melbourne Victory, as well as Turkey with Adana Demirspor, before joining Estrela da Amadora, thereby bringing renewed joy to his birthplace.

A Portuguese international with 112 caps, he played a pivotal role in the national team's victory at the European Championship in 2016. He also participated in the Euro tournaments of 2008 and 2012, along with the 2014 World Cup.

SportsLigue