Wikipedia

Nani (footballer)

In thisPortuguese name,the first or maternalfamily nameisAlmeidaand the second or paternal family name isda Cunha.

Luís Carlos Almeida da CunhaComM(born 17 November 1986), commonly known asNani(Portuguese pronunciation:[naˈni]), is a Portuguese former professionalfootballerwho played as awinger.He was known for his pace, flair and work ethic.

Nani
Nani withPortugalin 2017
Personal information
Full name Luís Carlos Almeida da Cunha[1]
Date of birth (1986-11-17)17 November 1986(age 38)[2]
Place of birth Amadora,Portugal[3][4]
Height 1.77 m (5 ft 10 in)[5]
Position(s) Winger
Youth career
2000–2003 Real Massamá
2003–2005 Sporting CP
Senior career*
Years Team Apps (Gls)
2005–2007 Sporting CP 58 (9)
2007–2015 Manchester United 147 (25)
2014–2015 →Sporting CP(loan) 27 (7)
2015–2016 Fenerbahçe 28 (8)
2016–2018 Valencia 25 (5)
2017–2018 →Lazio(loan) 18 (3)
2018–2019 Sporting CP 18 (7)
2019–2021 Orlando City 77 (28)
2022 Venezia 10 (0)
2022–2023 Melbourne Victory 10 (0)
2023–2024 Adana Demirspor 28 (4)
2024 Estrela da Amadora 9 (1)
Total 455 (97)
International career
2006–2007 Portugal U21 11 (1)
2006 Portugal B 1 (0)
2006–2017 Portugal 112 (24)
Medal record
Men'sfootball
RepresentingPortugal
UEFA European Championship
Winner 2016
FIFA Confederations Cup
Third place 2017
*Club domestic league appearances and goals

Nani began his career withSporting CP,joining theyouth teamin 2003 before making his first-team debut in 2005. During his two-year tenure in Portugal he won thePortuguese Cup.Before the 2007–08 season, Nani's performances attracted the attention of English clubManchester United,who secured his services in July 2007. He gained first-team status almost immediately and won fourPremier Leaguetitles, twoLeague Cups,threeFA Community Shields,theFIFA Club World Cupand theUEFA Champions Leaguewith them. Following a loan back to Sporting, in which he won a second Portuguese Cup, he was signed by Turkish sideFenerbahçein 2015, and a year later he signed forValenciain Spain. He rejoined Sporting in 2018, winning a third Portuguese Cup as well as thePortuguese League Cupfor the first time, before moving toMajor League SoccersideOrlando City,whom hecaptainedfor three seasons before leaving at the end of 2021. In January 2022, he moved toVeneziain Italy. Following brief stints in Australia, Turkey, and another return to Portugal, Nani announced his retirement from football in December 2024.

Nani made his Portugal international debut in 2006, scoring his first goal soon after and establishing himself as a key member of the side. He represented his country at threeEuropean Championships,in2008,2012and2016,as well as in the2014 FIFA World Cup.Nani started in thefinalof Euro 2016, and afterCristiano Ronaldogot injured, captained the team to victory. He made 112 appearances and scored 24 goals for his country in total.

Early life

edit

Nani was born on 17 November 1986 inAmadora,Lisbon metropolitan area,Portugal, and is ofCape Verdeandescent.[3][4]He was raised by his aunt Antónia on the Santa Filomena estate in Amadora after being abandoned by his parents.[6]At age five, his father left for a holiday in Cape Verde but never returned, and when he was 12 years old, his mother left Portugal to start a new life in theNetherlands.[6]Nani has nine siblings from his mother, of which he is the youngest, and five from his father.[7]Nani gained his nickname from an elder sister at a young age.[8]

Nani's older brother taught him how to play football and he played with his childhood friend, midfielderManuel Fernandes.[9][7]When Nani was around the age of 14, his older brother took him to train withReal Massamá.[8]They were Nani's first club and gave him money, food, and helped him obtain an ID card and a passport.[7]At the age of 16, Nani was training on alternate days withSporting CPandBenfica.[8]Nani sometimes walked miles to and from practice before Sporting offered him pre-season training.[8]Despite growing up in the Lisbon area, Nani and his brother supportedPortoas children.[10]His footballing hero wasLuís Figo.[6][11]

Club career

edit

Sporting CP

edit

Nani joined Sporting CP from his first club,Real Massamá.[6]After two seasons in the youth team, where he won the National Junior Championship in 2004–05, Nani was promoted to the first team early in the 2005–06 season.[12]On 10 August 2005, he made his Sporting CP debut, coming on as a substitute forCustódioin the 73rd minute in a 1–0 home defeat toUdinesein theirthird-round qualifierin theUEFA Champions League.[12][13]Nani made hisPortuguese Ligadebut on 28 August,[12]replacingDeividin the 76th minute of a 1–2 victory overMarítimoat theEstádio dos Barreiros.[citation needed]Nani scored his first Sporting goal on 30 October, opening the scoring in a 2–2 draw away toBoavista.[citation needed]Nani ended the first season of his career with 5 goals from 36 appearances across all competitions.[citation needed]

Nani first came into the spotlight after scoring in the UEFA Champions League againstSpartak Moscow,[14]scoring Sporting's goal in a 1–1group stagematch on 27 September 2006.[15]Nani helped Sporting win the2006–07 Taça de Portugal,[14]lifting the trophy after a 1–0 win overBelenenseson 27 May 2007 in thefinal.[citation needed]He was then named as the SJPF Young Player of the Month forMay 2007.[16]Nani's second season with Sporting ended with similar league statistics, with 40 appearances and 6 goals in all competitions.[citation needed]

Manchester United

edit

Early years

edit

Nani was sold toManchester Unitedfor €25.5 million,[17][18]five percent of which was paid to Real Massamá, his first professional club.[19]He passed his medical on 6 June 2007,[20]and signed a five-year contract one month later, joining Portuguese compatriotCristiano Ronaldo,with whom he lived at the start of his Manchester United career.[21][22]

Nani withGilberto Silva

Nani scored on his debut in a pre-season friendly againstShenzhen,scoring the third in a 6–0 win.[23]He also scored in the following match againstGuangzhou Pharmaceuticalwith a chip off the right post from the left side of the penalty area in a 3–0 win.[24]On 5 August 2007, Nani made his competitive debut for United, coming on as a substitute in theCommunity ShieldagainstChelsea.He marked his debut with a trophy after they won 3–0 onpenalties,following a 1–1 draw during normal time.[25]This was followed up by Nani's third goal for the club three days later, when he scored againstGlentoranin another 3–0 pre-season win.[26]

Nani'sPremier Leaguedebut came in United's opening match at home toReadingon 12 August as a substitute forWayne Rooney,who had suffered a foot injury.[27]Two weeks later, on 26 August, Nani scored his first competitive goal for United, netting a 30-yard goal in the 69th minute againstTottenham Hotspur.Nani also set up crucial goals forLouis SahaandNemanja Vidić,allowing United to defeat bothSunderlandandEverton1–0, respectively.[28][29]He returned to face his previous club, Sporting CP, in a Champions League tie in September, though it was teammate and fellow former Sporting player Cristiano Ronaldo who scored the winner in a 0–1 victory.[30]Nani opened the scoring in a 4–1 home victory overMiddlesbroughon 27 October.[31]

Nani playing for United in 2008

On 16 February 2008, Nani put in aman of the matchperformance againstArsenalin theFA CupFourth Round, his goal and two assists helping United to a 4–0 win over their rivals. During the match, Nani was involved in an altercation with Arsenal captainWilliam Gallas.[32]After the match, Arsenal managerArsène Wengerwas equally displeased, whileGilberto Silvasaid Nani had a "big head".[33]

On 23 March, Nani set up the second and scored the final goal in a 3–0 victory over rivalsLiverpool,in the 79th and 81st minutes respectively, after coming onto the pitch as a substitute.[34]On 3 May, towards the end of a 4–1 home win overWest Ham United,Nani was sent off for the first time in his United career for aheadbutton West Ham defenderLucas Neill.[35]On 21 May, Nani came on as a substitute for Wayne Rooney in the2008 UEFA Champions League Finalas United defeated Chelsea 6–5 on penalties following a 1–1 draw after extra time. Nani took and scored Manchester United's crucial fifth penalty in the shootout.[36]

Nani scored his first goal of the2008–09 seasonon 23 September 2008, scoring United's third goal in a 3–1 win overMiddlesbroughin the last minute to secure passage to the Fourth Round of theLeague Cup.[37]On 18 October, he scored from a Wayne Rooney assist to complete the 4–0 rout ofWest Bromwich AlbionatOld Trafford.[38]On 20 January 2009, he opened the scoring for United in their 4–2 win at home toDerby Countyin the second leg of their League Cup semi-final.[39]

Breakthrough

edit

After Cristiano Ronaldo's transfer toReal Madridin the 2009 close season, the weight of expectation was on Nani to step up frombit partplayer and replace his compatriot.[40]Nani's first contribution to United'snew seasonwas opening the scoring in the tenth minute of the2009 FA Community Shield,but United eventually lost the match on penalties after a 2–2 draw. Nani suffered a dislocated shoulder during the match, which was originally expected to keep him out of the start of the season.[41]He recovered in time to play 17 minutes forPortugalagainstLiechtensteinon 12 August, however,[42]and started the match againstBirmingham Cityon 16 August. Although he provided the assist for Wayne Rooney's winning goal in the 34th minute, Nani was replaced byRyan Giggsat half-time.[43]On 22 August, Nani scored his first league goal of the2009–10 season,a free-kick againstWigan Athleticin a 0–5 away win.[44]

Nani playing forManchester Unitedin 2008

Following several poor performances, Nani criticisedSir Alex Fergusonfor his lack of confidence in him.[45]Despite this outburst, Nani was given a chance to shine and provided an assist for Rooney in the 4–0 league win overHull City.[46]Soon after this positive display, he put in another good performance in theirLeague Cupsemi-final victory overderbyrivalsManchester City,revealing a heart-to-heart with Ferguson had resulted in a better display of form.[47]On 31 January 2010, Nani scored the first goal and set up Rooney's 100th career Premier League strike in a 1–3 league victory over Arsenal at theEmirates Stadium.[48]Nani's goal was first thought of as aManuel Almuniaown goal by many sources, but was confirmed as belonging to Nani on 26 March by theDubious Goals Panel.[49][50]Following this performance, Nani then set up the second of a 5–0 home win overPortsmouth.[51]

"Maturity is why we're seeing the best of him now, his last three games have been absolutely first class but today was his best."

–Sir Alex Fergusonpraises Nani after his performance in the 3–1 victory overArsenalon 31 January 2010.[52]

However, just four days later, he was sent off for a lunge atStiliyan PetrovagainstAston Villa,which resulted in a three-match ban and ruled him out of theLeague Cup final.[53]On 10 March, Nani set up Rooney's second in a 4–0 win overMilan,[54]before providing another assist for Rooney four days later, in the 3–0 league victory overFulham.[55]

On 26 March, Nani signed a new four-year contract with United, committing himself until 2014.[56]A day later, Nani took his assist tally in the league for the season to nine as he set up two goals in a 0–4 win overBolton Wanderersat theReebok Stadium,providing goals forDimitar BerbatovandDarron Gibson.[57]On 7 April, Nani scored his first everEuropeangoals for United, netting two strikes in a 3–2 victory overBayern Munich.Despite United winning the match, they were eliminated from the competition due to theaway goals rulewhen the aggregate score was 4–4.[58]On 24 April, Nani scored his first league goal at Old Trafford in 18 months, netting United's second in a 3–1 home victory over Tottenham Hotspur.[59]On 2 May, Nani scored for the second match in a row, netting the only goal in a 0–1 away victory over Sunderland.[60]Nani's third season with Manchester United ended with 34 appearances and seven goals in all competitions.[61]

2010–11 season

edit
Nani celebrates scoring againstWest Bromwich Albionin a 2–2 draw on 16 October 2010

On 22 August 2010, Nani missed a penalty in the 87th minute away to Fulham, and they then equalised two minutes later throughBrede Hangelandto end the match 2–2.[62]Six days later, in a 3–0 home victory over West Ham United, Nani scored his first goal of the season and assisted Dimitar Berbatov in a Man of the Match display.[63]Nani scored and assistedMichael Owenin a 2–2 away draw away toBolton Wandererson 26 September.[64]On 16 October, Nani scored United's second in a 2–2 home draw against West Bromwich Albion.[65]Four days later, Nani scored his first Champions League goal of the season, scoring the solitary strike in a 1–0 home victory overBursaspor.[66]

On 30 October, Nani scored a controversial second goal as United beat Tottenham Hotspur 2–0 at home.[67]He scored into an empty net after Tottenham goalkeeperHeurelho Gomesrolled the ball out to take a free-kick he thought had been given for handball; however, play was allowed to go on as refereeMark Clattenburgdid not blow his whistle.[68]On 27 November, Nani scored United's fifth goal in a 7–1 home win overBlackburn Rovers.[69]Nani netted his first goal of 2011 as he scored the winning strike in a 2–1 home victory overStoke Cityon 4 January.[70]

On 22 January, Nani scored the final goal of a 5–0 home victory over Birmingham City.[71]Nani scored United's only goal in their first league loss of the season, a 2–1 defeat atWolverhampton Wandererson 5 February.[72]Seven days later Nani scored his firstManchester derbygoal, opening the scoring in a 2–1 home victory over Manchester City.[73]

On 6 March, during United's 3–1 loss against Liverpool atAnfield,Nani was injured following a challenge fromJamie Carragherjust before half-time. Nani shed tears after the challenge and was subsequently taken off the pitch in a stretcher. Following post-match comments to the press from Manchester United, it was believed Nani had suffered a broken leg. However, this was not the case as he started training the following week.[74]It was thought Nani would miss up to three weeks as a result of this tackle and would return in April,[75]but he recovered in time to play 61 minutes of a 2–1 victory overMarseilleon 15 March.[76]

Nani was revealed as a contender for theProfessional Footballers' Association(PFA)Young Player of the Yearaward alongside teammateJavier Hernándezon 8 April.[77]However, many people, including Nani, expressed their surprise he was not nominated for themain award.[78][79]Following this nomination, he assisted both goals in a 2–0 home win over Fulham on 9 April.[80]Nani lost out toJack Wilsherefor the PFA Young Player of the Year award on 18 April but he was included in thePFA Premier League Team of the Yearfor the first time.[81]He was awarded for his outstanding season as he was voted Players' Player of the Year at the club's awards night on 18 May.[82]

2011–12 season

edit

Nani began thenew seasonby putting in a man of the match performance and scoring twice against derby rivals Manchester City in the2011 Community Shield,including a 94th-minute winner, as United came from two goals down to win 3–2 on 7 August 2011.[83]He scored his first league goal of the2011–12 seasonby netting United's fifth goal in an 8–2 victory over Arsenal on 28 August.[84]Nani made his 100th Premier League appearance on 18 September as he scored in a 3–1 home win over Chelsea.[85]He scored with a long-range strike after cutting inside from the right wing. He was also awarded with the man of the match. In United's following league match at theBritannia Stadium,Nani scored his third goal of the season in a 1–1 draw with Stoke City. He played a neat one-two withDarren Fletcherbefore making his way through Stoke's defence and firing a low shot inside the left post. Nani started the match against Manchester City where they fell victim to a 1–6 beating at home to their neighbours. On 1 November, Nani was shortlisted for the prestigiousFIFA Ballon d'Or.[citation needed]

On 10 December, the first match after United's elimination from theUEFA Champions League,Nani scored a brace in a home match against Wolverhampton Wanderers. He opened the scoring in the 17th minute to put them 1–0 up with a shot into the bottom left corner. He scored his second goal in the 56th minute, tapping in fromAntonio Valencia's drilled cross across the six-yard box to extend the lead to 3–1. He was later replaced by wingerAshley Youngas the match finished 4–1 to the home side. Nani scored his sixth league goal of the season and provided two assists in a 5–0 away win at Fulham on 21 December. He first advanced on a run down the left flank before crossing forDanny Welbeckto slot home. He then met a Ryan Giggs cross with his head to glance United into a 2–0 lead. He then returned the compliment, squaring for Giggs to put United 3–0 up before half-time.

During Manchester United's 2–1 win against Arsenal on 22 January, Nani sustained a foot injury from a tackle by Arsenal defenderLaurent Koscielnyin the 75th minute and was replaced by Ashley Young. After a scan on Nani's foot, he was feared to have suffered a metatarsal injury, thus not being able to play for two months. Nani returned to football on 15 April at United's match against Aston Villa as a substitute, replacing Young on the left wing. He scored a goal in stoppage time (93rd minute) with a low shot past Villa goalkeeperShay GivenfromJonny Evans' through-ball assist, resulting in a 4–0 win over Villa. Nani then followed this with another goal when chippingTim Howardat his near post in a 4–4 draw at Old Trafford against Everton.[86]

2012–13 season

edit

During the season Nani scored a single Premier League goal, and three in all competitions, marking significant decrease compared with previous seasons. He played just 11 times in the league, including only seven as a starter, although United ended up winning the league 11 points ahead of second place, to give Nani his fourth Premier League winner's medal. His most memorable appearance in the season came in the second leg of United'sUEFA Champions Leagueround of 16 tie with Real Madrid. With Manchester United leading 1—0, Nani was sent off in the 56th minute for a high boot onÁlvaro Arbeloa;Real Madrid took advantage of their numerical superiority and scored twice to win the match 2–1, and the tie 3–2 on aggregate.[87]

2013–14 season

edit

On 5 September 2013, Nani renewed his contract with Manchester United, which was to keep him at the club until 2018. He started his first match of2013–14 seasonagainst Liverpool in theLeague Cup.[88]Despite this, Nani spent most of the season struggling against injury and trying to find form.[89][90]He scored only once during the season.

Loan return to Sporting CP

edit

On 19 August 2014, Sporting CP announced the return of Nani to the club on a season-long loan from Manchester United, as part of a deal that brought centre-backMarcos Rojoto United.[91]Nani was given the number 77 shirt.[92]

Nani made his comeback at theEstádio José Alvaladein aPrimeira Ligamatch againstArouca,four days after signing. He missed a penalty, received a yellow card and was substituted in the 77th minute as the match ended in a 1–0 win for Sporting.[93]He scored his first goal of this loan on 17 September, opening a 1–1 draw atMariborin the first match of the2014–15 UEFA Champions League group stage.He was also voted Man of the Match.[94]Nani scored his first league goal for the club four days later in a 4–0 win againstGil Vicente[95]On 3 January 2015, Nani was sent off for two bookings in a 3–0 win overEstoril.[96]Nani scored in Sporting'spenalty shootoutvictory overBragain the2015 Taça de Portugal final,which earned the club their first trophy since 2008.[97]

Fenerbahçe

edit
Nani withFenerbahçein 2015

On 6 July 2015, Nani joined Turkish clubFenerbahçe,signing a three-year deal[98]for a £4.25 million transfer fee.[99]He and his former United teammateRobin van Persiedebuted 22 days later in a goalless home draw againstShakhtar Donetskin thethird qualifying roundofthe season's Champions League,with Nani starting.[100]He scored two goals including the winner, a free-kick in second-half stoppage time, againstAntalyasporon 30 August.[101]

On 26 May 2016, Nani was sent off in theTurkish Cupfinal for sarcastically applauding the referee following a 1–0 loss to rivalsGalatasaray.[102]

Valencia

edit

In July 2016, Nani signed for Spanish clubValenciaon a three-year contract, with Valencia paying an undisclosed fee – reported at £7.2 million – to complete the transfer.[103]

Nani was suspended for Valencia's season opener againstLas Palmasas he had not served his suspension from his last game for Fenerbahçe.[104]He debuted on 27 August in the next game, a 1–0 loss atEibar.[105]On 25 September, in his 500th game as a professional, he opened his Valencia account with his 100th goal to conclude a 2–1 win atLeganés.[106]In his one season at theMestalla,he suffered four muscular injuries over the course of the campaign – a contrast to his previous year in Turkey, where he played 64 games for club and country.[107]

Loan to Lazio

edit

On 31 August 2017,Lazioannounced the signing of Nani on a season-long loan deal.[108]He scored his first goal for Lazio on 29 October, the final goal of a 5–1 away victory overBenevento.[109]

Return to Sporting CP

edit

On 11 July 2018,Sporting CPannounced that Nani would be rejoining the club.[110]He scored twice in his second game on 18 August, a 2–1 home win overVitória Setúbal.[111]In one of his final games on 26 January, the2019 Taça da Liga Finalin Braga, he scored Sporting's last penalty as they defeated Porto following a 1–1 draw.[112]

Orlando City

edit

On 18 February 2019, Nani moved toOrlando City,signing a three-year contract on aDesignated Playerdeal.[113]He made his club debut on 2 March, coming on as a 70th minute substitute in Orlando's season opener at home againstNew York City FC;the game ended in a 2–2 draw, with Nani registering an assist onDom Dwyer's equaliser.[114]He scored his first goals for the team on 6 April 2019, when he netted twice in Orlando's 4–3 home win overColorado Rapids,including the game–winning penalty in the 89th minute.[115]

On 31 July 2020, he missed a penalty in regulation time againstLos Angeles FCin the quarter-finals of theMLS is Back Tournamentbut later assisted the last-minute equalizer and scored the winning penalty during an extra-timeshootout.[116]In the semi-finals againstMinnesota United,Nani scored two first-half goals to help his team reach the final with a 3–1 win.[117]However, Orlando City eventually finished runners-up in the tournament, losing toPortland Timbersin the final.[118]

On 6 May 2021, Nani's goal againstFC Cincinnatiin a 3–0 victory five days earlier saw him awardedGoal of the Week.[119]On 2 August, Nani was namedPlayer of the Weekfor providing a goal and an assist in a 3–2 victory overAtlanta Unitedtwo days earlier.[120][121]On 21 May, the MLS Disciplinary Committee suspended Nani for two games for making physical contact with refereeAlex Chilowiczduring a match atD.C. Unitedfive days earlier on 16 May.[122]On 26 November, Nani announced he was leaving Orlando City following the expiration of his contract.[123]

Venezia

edit

On 14 January 2022, he signed a contract with ItalianSerie AclubVeneziauntil the end of the 2022–23 season.[124]The contract was terminated by mutual consent on 8 July 2022.[125]

Melbourne Victory

edit

On 12 July 2022, Nani signed a two-year contract withA-League MenclubMelbourne Victory.[126]

Three days later, he made his unofficial debut for his new team, coming on as a late substitute in a 4–1 loss to former side Manchester United.[127]On 6 January 2023, during anA-League Mengame againstBrisbane Roar,heruptured his anterior cruciate ligamentin an accidental clash with opponentConnor Chapman,and was ruled out for the rest of the season.[128][129][130]

On 31 May 2023, the club confirmed Nani's departure.[131]

Adana Demirspor

edit

On 13 July 2023,Süper LigclubAdana Demirsporannounced the signing of Nani on a one-year contract, with an option for a further year.[132]He was in the squad for 28 league matches and 5 European Cup qualifiers and scored 4 goals in Adana Demirspor. On 13 May 2024, it was announced that he had left the club.[133][134]

Estrela Amadora and retirement

edit

On 8 December 2024, after playing forEstrela Amadora,Nani announced his retirement from professional football.[135][136]

International career

edit

Portugal under–21

edit

Nani was the youngest member of thePortugal U21 squadat the2006 UEFA Under-21 Championship,making his debut on 23 May 2006 in a 1–0 defeat toFrance.[137]He appeared in all three matches, scoring no goals, before Portugal bowed out in group stages.[138]During the2007 European Under-21 Football Championship,he made four appearances,[139]scoring one goal in a 4–0 victory againstIsrael U21in a group stage match on 16 June 2007,[140]and had to be taken off during the match after a right ankle injury.[141]

Portugal senior team

edit
Nani in action for Portugal in 2008

Nani made his first appearance for the seniorPortuguese teamon 1 September 2006, and marked his debut with a goal in Portugal's 4–2 friendly defeat toDenmark.[9]Nani was omitted from Portugal's 1–1 draw withArmenia,but was recalled for Euro 2008 qualifiers againstPolandandSerbiain September.[142]He also provided the assist forRicardo Quaresma's goal in a friendly againstItalyon 6 February 2008.[143]Nani was ruled out of Portugal's friendly withGreecein March 2008 due to injury.[144]

UEFA Euro 2008

edit

Nani was a regular member of the Portugal squad inEuro 2008 qualification,and scored one of the goals in the 2–1 away win overBelgiumon 2 June 2007.[145]Nani received a call-up toLuiz Felipe Scolari's 23-man squad forEuro 2008alongside Manchester United teammate Cristiano Ronaldo.[146]During the campaign, Nani played three matches and started just one,[138]but did provide the assist forHélder Postiga's goal during a substitute appearance in the 3–2 quarter-final defeat toGermanyon 19 June.[147]

2010 FIFA World Cup and Qualification

edit

Nani's fourth international goal came in Portugal's final friendly match before theirWorld Cup qualifying campaignstarted, a 5–0 victory over theFaroe Islandson 20 August 2008.[148]Nani scored the final goal of a 4–0 victory overMaltaas Portugal started qualification for the2010 World Cupon 6 September.[149]He opened the scoring in the 3–2 home loss against Denmark four days later.[150]Nani helped Portugal book aplay-off placefor the World Cup as he netted in the 4–0 home win over Malta on 14 October 2009.[151]Nani was influential in the play-off againstBosnia and Herzegovina,setting upBruno Alvesfor the only goal in the first leg.[152]Raul Meireles' goal in the second-leg sealed Portugal's place at the World Cup in South Africa.[153]

On 1 June 2010, Nani netted Portugal's third in a 3–1 victory overCameroon.[154]Following that game Nani was named inCarlos Queiroz23-man squad for the tournament,[155]However, on 8 June, Nani was ruled out of the tournament through a shoulder injury and was replaced by Benfica midfielderRuben Amorim.[156]

UEFA Euro 2012

edit
Nani battling for the ball withLukas Podolskiin theirEuro 2012group stage match

Nani scored twice and assisted once inPaulo Bento's first game in charge of Portugal in a 3–1Euro 2012 qualifyingwin over Denmark on 8 October 2010.[157]Nani scored twice and set up another again in a 5–3 win over Iceland on 7 October 2011.

2014 FIFA World Cup

edit

Nani started in the opening match of the2014 World CupforPortugalagainst Germany.[158]After the match, he stated how the team played well despite the loss and how "the referee has discriminated against us, but that's normal, Portugal against big teams never get help".[159]In the team's second fixture, Nani scored the opening goal for Portugal in a 2–2 draw with theUnited States.[160]

UEFA Euro 2016

edit

Nani scored Portugal's first goal in the last match of the group stage, a 3–3 draw againstHungaryon 22 June, to help the team qualify for the knockout round.[161]He then contributed to the only goal of the match in a 1–0 extra-time victory in the round of 16 againstCroatiaon 25 June.[162]During their quarter-final match on 30 June againstPoland,Nani set upRenato Sanches' goal in regulation time and later scored Portugal's fourth penalty in an eventual 5–3 shoot-out victory, following a 1–1 draw after extra-time.[163]In the semi-finals againstWaleson 6 July, he scored the second goal in a 2–0 victory.[164]In thefinalagainst host-nationFranceon 10 July, Nani was awarded thecaptain's armband after Cristiano Ronaldo was forced off in the opening 25 minutes of the match following a challenge fromDimitri Payet.During extra-time, substituteEderscored in the 109th minute to earn Portugal a 1–0 victory.[165]

FIFA 2017 Confederations Cup and 2018 World Cup

edit
Nani during the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup

On 24 June 2017, Nani scored the final goal of a 4–0 win over New Zealand in the FIFA Confederations Cup which saw Portugal finish third.[166]

In May 2018 he was named in Portugal's preliminary 35-mansquadfor the2018 World Cupin Russia[167]but did not make the final 23.[168]

Style of play

edit

"Nani's got the potential to do what he wants. He's one of the sharpest players around, has a great strike with both feet – he's got the potential to be a top, top player."

– Manchester United teammateRio Ferdinandon Nani[169]

In the early stages of his career at Manchester United, Nani's ability and playing style often invited comparisons with club and international teammateCristiano Ronaldo,however Nani's style developed into more that of a traditionalwingerthan Ronaldo's evolution into a centre forward.

While being able to play on both wings, Nani was more comfortable on the right side, where he was known to utilise his pace along with intricatedribblingskills andtrickeryto create space in wide areas and providecrossesfor teammates. Though capable of cutting inside from either wing to strike at goal from distance, Nani scored fewer goals but produced a substantially higher proportion of assists than his compatriot Ronaldo. Due to his potent attacking talents, he could play a variety of additional roles as aforward,including as aninverted wingeron the left,second striker,or even in a more central position as a mainstriker,as he played frequently for Portugal.[170][171]

Celebration

edit

Nanicelebrated goalswith asomersaultreferred to in Portuguese as a "mortal" ( "leap of death" ), similar to that ofObafemi MartinsandLomana LuaLua.The celebration derived from Nani's background incapoeira,which he used to practice as a child.[172]For a while, it was reported that United manager Sir Alex Ferguson had banned Nani's celebration due to fear for his safety.[173]However, Nani denounced the reports in August 2007, stating it was "not true" and that "Ferguson has never spoken to me about this subject and I am going to continue to celebrate goals in this way. The conversations he has had with me are normal conversations, like he has with all players".[174]

Career statistics

edit

Club

edit
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition[169][175][176]
Club Season League National cup[nb 1] League cup[nb 2] Continental[nb 3] Other[nb 4] Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
Sporting CP 2005–06 Primeira Liga 29 4 5 1 — 2 0 — 36 5
2006–07 Primeira Liga 29 5 5 0 — 6 1 — 40 6
Total 58 9 10 1 — 8 1 — 76 11
Manchester United 2007–08 Premier League 26 3 2 1 1 0 11 0 1 0 41 4
2008–09 Premier League 13 1 2 2 6 3 7 0 3 0 31 6
2009–10 Premier League 23 3 0 0 2 0 8 2 1 1 34 6
2010–11 Premier League 33 9 3 0 0 0 12 1 1 0 49 10
2011–12 Premier League 29 8 1 0 0 0 9 0 1 2 40 10
2012–13 Premier League 11 1 5 1 1 1 4 0 — 21 3
2013–14 Premier League 11 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 13 1
2014–15 Premier League 1 0 0 0 0 0 — — 1 0
Total 147 25 13 4 11 4 52 4 7 3 230 40
Sporting CP (loan) 2014–15 Primeira Liga 27 7 3 1 0 0 7 4 — 37 12
Fenerbahçe 2015–16 Süper Lig 28 8 6 3 — 13 1 — 47 12
Valencia 2016–17 La Liga 25 5 1 0 — — — 26 5
Lazio(loan) 2017–18 Serie A 18 3 1 0 — 6 0 — 25 3
Sporting CP 2018–19 Primeira Liga 18 7 3 1 2 0 5 1 — 28 9
Orlando City 2019 MLS 30 12 3 0 — — — 33 12
2020 MLS 19[nb 5] 6 — 2 1 — 4 2 25 9
2021 MLS 28 10 — 1 0 1 0 — 30 10
Total 77 28 3 0 3 1 1 0 4 2 88 31
Venezia 2021–22 Serie A 10 0 — — — — 10 0
Melbourne Victory 2022–23 A-League 10 0 1 0 — — — 11 0
Adana Demirspor 2023–24 Süper Lig 28 4 1 0 — 5 0 — 34 4
Estrela Amadora 2024–25 Primeira Liga 9 1 1 0 — — — 10 1
Career total 455 97 43 10 16 5 97 11 11 5 622 128
  1. ^IncludesTaça de Portugal,FA Cup,Turkish Cup,Copa del Rey,Coppa Italia,U.S. Open CupandAustralia Cup
  2. ^IncludesTaça da Liga,Football League CupandMLS Cup playoffs
  3. ^IncludesUEFA Champions League,UEFA Cup/UEFA Europa LeagueandLeagues Cup
  4. ^Includes other competitive competitions, includingFA Community Shield,UEFA Super Cup,FIFA Club World CupandMLS is Back Tournamentknockout stage
  5. ^Includes three appearances and one goal in theMLS is Back Tournamentgroup stage

International

edit
Appearances and goals by national team and year[177]
National team Year Apps Goals
Portugal 2006 4 1
2007 7 1
2008 11 3
2009 11 1
2010 7 3
2011 10 3
2012 14 1
2013 8 1
2014 11 1
2015 9 2
2016 14 6
2017 6 1
Total 112 24
Portugal score listed first, score column indicates score after each Nani goal.[177]
International goals by date, venue, cap, opponent, score, result and competition
No. Date Venue Cap Opponent Score Result Competition
1 1 September 2006 Brøndby Stadium,Copenhagen,Denmark 1 Denmark 2–2 2–4 Friendly
2 2 June 2007 King Baudouin Stadium,Brussels,Belgium 6 Belgium 1–0 2–1 UEFA Euro 2008 qualifying
3 20 August 2008 Estádio Municipal de Aveiro,Aveiro,Portugal 17 Faroe Islands 5–0 5–0 Friendly
4 6 September 2008 Ta' Qali National Stadium,Attard,Malta 18 Malta 4–0 4–0 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification
5 10 September 2008 Estádio José Alvalade,Lisbon,Portugal 19 Denmark 1–0 2–3 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification
6 14 October 2009 Estádio D. Afonso Henriques,Guimarães,Portugal 31 Malta 1–0 4–0 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification
7 1 June 2010 Complexo Desportivo da Covilhã,Covilhã,Portugal 36 Cameroon 3–1 3–1 Friendly
8 8 October 2010 Estádio do Dragão,Porto,Portugal 39 Denmark 1–0 3–1 UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying
9 2–0
10 7 October 2011 Estádio do Dragão, Porto, Portugal 48 Iceland 1–0 5–3 UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying
11 2–0
12 15 November 2011 Estádio da Luz,Lisbon, Portugal 51 Bosnia and Herzegovina 2–0 6–2 UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying
13 2 June 2012 Estádio da Luz, Lisbon, Portugal 54 Turkey 1–2 1–3 Friendly
14 15 October 2013 Estádio Cidade de Coimbra,Coimbra,Portugal 70 Luxembourg 2–0 3–0 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification
15 22 June 2014 Arena da Amazônia,Manaus,Brazil 77 United States 1–0 2–2 2014 FIFA World Cup
16 11 October 2015 Partizan Stadium,Belgrade,Serbia 90 Serbia 1–0 2–1 UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying
17 17 November 2015 Stade Josy Barthel,Luxembourg,Luxembourg 92 Luxembourg 2–0 2–0 Friendly
18 29 March 2016 Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa,Leiria,Portugal 94 Belgium 1–0 2–1 Friendly
19 14 June 2016 Stade Geoffroy-Guichard,Saint-Étienne,France 97 Iceland 1–0 1–1 UEFA Euro 2016
20 22 June 2016 Parc Olympique Lyonnais,Lyon,France 99 Hungary 1–1 3–3 UEFA Euro 2016
21 6 July 2016 Parc Olympique Lyonnais, Lyon, France 102 Wales 2–0 2–0 UEFA Euro 2016
22 1 September 2016 Estádio do Bessa,Porto, Portugal 104 Gibraltar 1–0 5–0 Friendly
23 2–0
24 24 June 2017 Krestovsky Stadium,Saint Petersburg,Russia 110 New Zealand 4–0 4–0 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup

Honours

edit

Sporting CP

Manchester United

Portugal

Individual

Orders

See also

edit

References

edit
  1. ^"FIFA Confederations Cup Russia 2017: List of players: Portugal"(PDF).FIFA. 20 March 2018. p. 7. Archived fromthe original(PDF)on 24 July 2017.Retrieved29 March2018.
  2. ^"Nani".ManUtd.com.Manchester United. Archived fromthe originalon 13 July 2011.Retrieved4 December2010.
  3. ^abPinto, Adriano (3 February 2010)."Nani trabalha forte no Manchester com o pensamento no Mundial"[Nani works hard at Manchester while thinking of the World Cup].Nha Terra(in Portuguese). Archived fromthe originalon 12 June 2014.Retrieved9 December2021.
  4. ^ab"Nani".Archivedfrom the original on 15 June 2018.Retrieved29 July2018.
  5. ^"Luís Carlos Almeida da Cunha - Melbourne Victory".melbournevictory.com.au.Archived fromthe originalon 8 April 2023.Retrieved8 April2023.
  6. ^abcdWorden, Tom; Mullock, Simon (17 June 2007)."Slums nurtured Nani".Mirror.co.uk.Trinity Mirror.Archivedfrom the original on 30 April 2014.Retrieved26 November2013.
  7. ^abcWhite, Duncan (8 August 2009)."Community Shield: Nani looks forward to stepping out of Cristiano Ronaldo's shadow".The Daily Telegraph.Archivedfrom the original on 19 June 2012.Retrieved8 August2009.
  8. ^abcdCastles, Duncan (2 May 2010)."I'm teaching Rooney. First time he tried it, perfect, unbelievable".The Times.Archived fromthe originalon 29 June 2011.Retrieved2 May2010.
  9. ^abHenderson, Charlie (31 May 2007)."Who are Anderson & Nani?".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 23 August 2007.Retrieved4 August2007.
  10. ^"Nani: os primeiros passos de um rebelde...portista".Maisfutebol(in Portuguese).Retrieved21 May2024.
  11. ^"How parents' divorce almost ruined Nani's career".nigerianbestforum.com. 30 April 2008.Archivedfrom the original on 14 July 2011.Retrieved30 April2008.
  12. ^abc"Sporting – Luis Carlos" Nani "".Sporting CP. 10 January 2011. Archived fromthe originalon 8 June 2012.Retrieved10 January2011.
  13. ^"Sporting Lisbon 0–1 Udinese".ESPN Soccernet. 10 August 2005. Archived fromthe originalon 28 June 2011.Retrieved10 August2005.
  14. ^abMills, Steve (10 January 2011)."Get to know... Nani".Manchester United.Archivedfrom the original on 14 July 2011.Retrieved10 January2011.
  15. ^"Spartak Moscow 1–1 Sporting Lisbon".ESPN Soccernet. 10 January 2011. Archived fromthe originalon 28 June 2011.Retrieved10 January2011.
  16. ^"Nani wins Young Player Award May"(in Portuguese). Football Database EU. 10 January 2011.Retrieved10 January2011.[dead link‍]
  17. ^Meireles, Rui Bacelar (30 May 2007)."INFORMAÇÃO PRIVILEGIADA"[Sporting – Sociedade Desportiva de Futebol, SAD makes an announcement](PDF).Sporting CP(in Portuguese). Portuguese Securities Market Commission (CMVM).Archived(PDF)from the original on 1 March 2011.Retrieved4 October2010.
  18. ^Winter, Henry (14 June 2007)."Nani shows United's £17m is well spent".The Daily Telegraph.London. Archived fromthe originalon 26 May 2012.Retrieved29 November2008.
  19. ^Gouveia, Ricardo (19 July 2007)."Real Massamá ainda não recebeu os cinco por cento de Nani"(in Portuguese). Maisfutebol. Archived fromthe originalon 29 September 2007.Retrieved29 November2008.
  20. ^Hibbs, Ben (6 June 2007)."Nani passes Reds medical".Manchester United.Archivedfrom the original on 14 July 2011.Retrieved6 June2007.
  21. ^"How parents' divorce almost ruined Nani's career".Nigeria: sunnewsonline.com. 30 April 2008. Archived fromthe originalon 13 October 2008.Retrieved25 February2009.
  22. ^Bartram, Steve (2 July 2007)."Reds complete triple signing".Manchester United.Archivedfrom the original on 14 July 2011.Retrieved2 July2007.
  23. ^Coppack, Nick (23 July 2007)."Shenzhen 0 United 6".Manchester United. Archived fromthe originalon 14 July 2011.Retrieved23 July2007.
  24. ^Coppack, Nick (27 July 2007)."Guangzhou 0 United 3".Manchester United. Archived fromthe originalon 14 July 2011.Retrieved27 July2007.
  25. ^Coppack, Nick (5 August 2007)."Report: Reds Lift Community Shield".Manchester United. Archived fromthe originalon 14 July 2011.Retrieved26 August2007.
  26. ^Hibbs, Ben (8 August 2007)."Glentoran 0 United 3".Manchester United. Archived fromthe originalon 14 July 2011.Retrieved8 August2007.
  27. ^Bartram, Steve (12 August 2007)."Report: United 0 Reading 0".Manchester United. Archived fromthe originalon 11 October 2012.Retrieved26 August2007.
  28. ^McKenzie, Andrew (1 September 2007)."Man Utd 1–0 Sunderland".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 30 April 2009.Retrieved29 November2008.
  29. ^McNulty, Phil (15 September 2007)."Everton 0–1 Man Utd".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 3 February 2009.Retrieved29 November2008.
  30. ^Bartram, Steve (19 September 2007)."Report: Sporting 0 United 1".Manchester United. Archived fromthe originalon 11 October 2012.Retrieved29 September2007.
  31. ^Hughes, Ian (27 October 2007)."Man Utd 4–1 Middlesbrough".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 26 June 2018.Retrieved27 October2007.
  32. ^"Fergie slams Gallas".Manchester Evening News.18 April 2010.
  33. ^Kay, Oliver (18 February 2008)."Arsene Wenger 'humiliated' by Nani juggling act".The Times.London: Times Newspapers. Archived fromthe originalon 25 July 2008.Retrieved29 November2008.
  34. ^Bostock, Adam (23 March 2008)."Report: United 3 Liverpool 0".Manchester United. Archived fromthe originalon 11 October 2012.Retrieved23 March2008.
  35. ^McNulty, Phil (3 May 2008)."Man Utd 4–1 West Ham".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 3 May 2008.Retrieved3 May2008.
  36. ^McNulty, Phil (21 May 2008)."Man Utd earn dramatic Euro glory".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 26 May 2008.Retrieved29 November2008.
  37. ^"Man Utd 3–1 Middlesbrough".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 23 September 2008.Archivedfrom the original on 3 July 2013.Retrieved29 November2008.
  38. ^Whyatt, Chris (18 October 2008)."Man Utd 4–0 West Brom".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 3 December 2013.Retrieved29 November2008.
  39. ^Bevan, Chris (20 January 2009)."Man Utd 4–2 Derby (4–3 agg)".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 22 January 2009.Retrieved20 January2009.
  40. ^Fleming, Mark (10 August 2009)."Nani still stuck in Ronaldo's shadow".The Independent.Archivedfrom the original on 11 November 2012.Retrieved7 August2011.
  41. ^"Man Utd suffer Nani injury blow".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 9 August 2009.Retrieved9 August2009.
  42. ^Coppack, Nick (13 August 2009)."Nani returns for Portugal".Manchester United.Archivedfrom the original on 11 October 2012.Retrieved13 August2009.
  43. ^Soneji, Pranav (16 August 2009)."Man Utd 1–0 Birmingham".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 6 August 2017.Retrieved17 August2009.
  44. ^Bevan, Chris (22 August 2009)."Wigan 0–5 Man Utd".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 5 September 2017.Retrieved22 August2009.
  45. ^"Nani outburst risks wrath of Sir Alex Ferguson".The Guardian.12 November 2009.Archivedfrom the original on 15 January 2016.Retrieved7 August2011.
  46. ^"Nani reveals injury frustration".Sky Sports.British Sky Broadcasting. 25 January 2010.Archivedfrom the original on 28 January 2010.Retrieved25 January2010.
  47. ^Lane, Jake (24 August 2012)."Where has it all gone wrong for Nani at Manchester United?".HITC.
  48. ^"Arsenal 1–3 Man Utd".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 31 January 2010.Archivedfrom the original on 27 March 2012.Retrieved31 January2010.
  49. ^"Dubious goals".Premier League.25 May 2010. Archived fromthe originalon 28 May 2010.Retrieved25 May2010.
  50. ^Coppack, Nick (26 May 2010)."Late gift for Nani".ManUtd.com.Manchester United.Archivedfrom the original on 10 October 2012.Retrieved26 May2010.
  51. ^"Man Utd 5–0 Portsmouth".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 6 February 2010.Archivedfrom the original on 13 February 2010.Retrieved6 February2010.
  52. ^"Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson praises Nani".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 31 January 2010.Retrieved31 January2010.
  53. ^McNulty, Phil (10 February 2010)."Aston Villa 1–1 Man Utd".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 12 January 2016.Retrieved10 February2010.
  54. ^McNulty, Phil (10 March 2010)."Man Utd 4–0 AC Milan (agg 7–2)".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 22 May 2013.Retrieved10 March2010.
  55. ^Fletcher, Paul (14 March 2010)."Man Utd 3–0 Fulham".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 1 September 2017.Retrieved14 March2010.
  56. ^"Nani signs new four-year contract at Manchester United".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 26 March 2010.Retrieved26 March2010.
  57. ^"Bolton 0–4 Man Utd".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 27 March 2010.Archivedfrom the original on 19 April 2010.Retrieved27 March2010.
  58. ^"Man Utd 3–2 Bayern Munich".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 7 April 2010.Archivedfrom the original on 8 April 2010.Retrieved7 April2010.
  59. ^"Man Utd 3–1 Tottenham".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 24 April 2010.Archivedfrom the original on 5 May 2010.Retrieved24 April2010.
  60. ^"Sunderland 0–1 Man Utd".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 2 May 2010.Archivedfrom the original on 12 May 2010.Retrieved2 May2010.
  61. ^"Manchester United Squad Stats – 2009/10".ESPN Soccernet. 16 January 2011. Archived fromthe originalon 28 June 2011.Retrieved16 January2011.
  62. ^"Fulham 2–2 Man Utd".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 22 August 2010.Archivedfrom the original on 22 August 2010.Retrieved29 August2010.
  63. ^"Nani's perfect riposte".Manchester United. 28 August 2010.Archivedfrom the original on 11 October 2012.Retrieved29 August2010.
  64. ^"Bolton 2–2 Man Utd".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 26 September 2010.Archivedfrom the original on 8 February 2011.Retrieved26 September2010.
  65. ^"Man Utd 2–2 West Brom".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 16 October 2010.Archivedfrom the original on 29 October 2019.Retrieved16 October2010.
  66. ^"Man Utd 1–0 Bursaspor".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 20 October 2010.Retrieved20 October2010.
  67. ^"Man Utd 2–0 Tottenham".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 30 October 2010.Retrieved30 October2010.
  68. ^"Spurs boss Harry Redknapp bemoans 'farcical' Nani goal".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 30 October 2010.Retrieved30 October2010.
  69. ^Chowdury, Saj (27 November 2010)."Man Utd 7–1 Blackburn".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 12 January 2016.Retrieved27 November2010.
  70. ^Stevenson, Jonathan (4 January 2011)."Man Utd 2–1 Stoke".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 19 August 2017.Retrieved4 January2011.
  71. ^Whyatt, Chris (22 January 2011)."Man Utd 5–0 Birmingham".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 12 January 2016.Retrieved22 January2011.
  72. ^Whyatt, Chris (5 February 2011)."Wolves 2–1 Man Utd".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 12 March 2012.Retrieved5 February2011.
  73. ^McNulty, Phil (12 February 2011)."Man Utd 2–1 Man City".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 13 January 2016.Retrieved12 February2011.
  74. ^McNulty, Phil (6 March 2011)."Liverpool 3–1 Man Utd".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 12 January 2016.Retrieved6 March2011.
  75. ^"Manchester United winger Nani ruled out until April".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 11 March 2011.Retrieved11 March2011.
  76. ^McNulty, Phil (15 March 2011)."Man Utd 2–1 Marseille (agg 2–1)".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 29 October 2019.Retrieved15 March2011.
  77. ^"Gareth Bale & Samir Nasri lead PFA nominations".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 8 April 2011.Archivedfrom the original on 24 January 2020.Retrieved8 April2011.
  78. ^Gibbs, Thom (8 April 2011)."PFA Player of the Year – the alternative shortlist".The Daily Telegraph.Archivedfrom the original on 10 April 2011.Retrieved8 April2011.
  79. ^O'Rourke, Peter (11 April 2011)."Nani disappointed by snub".Sky Sports.British Sky Broadcasting.Archivedfrom the original on 14 April 2011.Retrieved11 April2011.
  80. ^Fletcher, Paul (9 April 2011)."Man Utd 2–0 Fulham".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 10 April 2011.Retrieved9 April2011.
  81. ^"Spurs' Gareth Bale wins PFA player of the year award".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 18 April 2011.Archivedfrom the original on 28 October 2019.Retrieved18 April2011.
  82. ^Froggatt, Mark (18 May 2011)."Nani is players' choice".Manchester United.Archivedfrom the original on 19 May 2011.Retrieved18 May2011.
  83. ^Bevan, Chris (7 August 2011)."Man City 2–3 Man Utd".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 8 August 2011.Retrieved7 August2011.
  84. ^McNulty, Phil (28 August 2011)."Man Utd 8–2 Arsenal".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Archivedfrom the original on 12 January 2016.Retrieved28 August2011.
  85. ^McNulty, Phil (18 September 2011)."Man Utd 3–1 Chelsea".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Retrieved18 September2011.
  86. ^Rostance, Tom (21 December 2011)."Fulham 0–5 Man Utd".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. Archived fromthe originalon 13 July 2011.Retrieved21 December2011.
  87. ^"Manchester United - Real Madrid match report".UEFA.com.31 January 2010.Archivedfrom the original on 29 December 2017.Retrieved23 January2020.
  88. ^"Nani signs new deal".ManUtd.com.Manchester United. 5 September 2013.Archivedfrom the original on 7 September 2013.Retrieved5 September2013.
  89. ^McCann, Danny (30 November 2013)."Manchester United boss David Moyes challenges Nani to be more consistent".The Mirror.Archivedfrom the original on 31 October 2014.Retrieved25 October2014.
  90. ^Cross, John (5 May 2014)."Manchester United winger Nani's £10million Juventus move blocked by incoming boss Louis van Gaal".The Mirror.Archivedfrom the original on 31 October 2014.Retrieved25 October2014.
  91. ^Saunders, Scott."Manchester United Reach '£16m Plus Nani' Agreement With Sporting for Marcos Rojo".FTBpro.Archived fromthe originalon 21 August 2014.Retrieved20 August2014.
  92. ^"Nani fica com o número 77"[Nani gets the 77 shirt].A Bola(in Portuguese). Archived fromthe originalon 26 August 2014.Retrieved23 August2014.
  93. ^"Sporting CP v Arouca Starting XIs, 23/08/14, Primeira Liga | Goal.com".www.goal.com.
  94. ^"Last-gasp Zahovič earns Maribor a Sporting draw".UEFA.17 September 2014.Archivedfrom the original on 20 September 2014.Retrieved17 September2014.
  95. ^"Gil Vicente 0–4 Sporting".BBC Sport.21 September 2014.Archivedfrom the original on 25 September 2014.Retrieved4 January2015.
  96. ^"Porto wins 5–1 at Gil Vicente to close on Benfica".Yahoo News.Associated Press. 3 January 2015.Archivedfrom the original on 4 January 2015.Retrieved4 January2015.
  97. ^"Sporting win dramatic Taça de Portugal final on penalties".Portugoal. 31 May 2015.Archivedfrom the original on 20 June 2015.Retrieved19 June2015.
  98. ^"Fenerbahce sign Nani from Manchester United for £4.3m".The Guardian.6 July 2015.Archivedfrom the original on 8 July 2015.Retrieved7 July2015.
  99. ^"Nani: Fenerbahce sign Manchester United winger for £4.25m".BBC Sport (British Broadcasting Corporation). 6 July 2015.Archivedfrom the original on 7 July 2015.Retrieved6 July2015.
  100. ^"Champions League roundup: Van Persie and Nani draw blank for Fenerbahce".The Guardian.28 July 2015.Archivedfrom the original on 10 September 2015.Retrieved29 July2015.
  101. ^"Fenerbahçe 2 - 1 Antalyaspor".Archivedfrom the original on 5 October 2015.Retrieved31 August2015.
  102. ^"Galatasaray 1-0 Fenerbahce: Podolski header settles Turkish Cup final".Goal. 26 May 2016.Retrieved9 December2021.
  103. ^"Nani: Valencia sign former Man Utd winger on three-year deal".British Broadcasting Corporation. 5 July 2016.Archivedfrom the original on 8 July 2016.Retrieved5 July2016."Nani: 'United contract could have been best moment of my life – but it turned into the worst'".The Guardian.17 August 2016.Archivedfrom the original on 17 August 2016.Retrieved17 August2016.
  104. ^"Nani banned for Valencia opener".Football España. 4 August 2016.Retrieved9 December2021.
  105. ^Barroso, Ander (27 August 2016)."Pako:" Que me digan cómo puede ser penalti cuando nos han explicado la regla ""[Pako "They can tell me how it can be a penalty when they've told us the rule" ].Marca(in Spanish).Retrieved9 December2021.
  106. ^Puig, Darío (27 September 2016)."El doble premio de Nani"[Nani's double award] (in Spanish).Retrieved9 December2021.
  107. ^Puig, Darío (9 March 2017)."El ritmo de Nani"[Nani's rhythm].Marca(in Spanish).Retrieved9 December2021.
  108. ^"Benvenuto Nani"[Welcome Nani] (in Italian). S.S. Lazio. 31 August 2017.Archivedfrom the original on 31 August 2017.Retrieved31 August2017.
  109. ^"Lazio unstoppable at Benevento".Football Italia. 29 October 2017.Archivedfrom the original on 30 October 2017.Retrieved29 October2017.
  110. ^Sporting CP Officially Confirm the Signing of Former Manchester United Star NaniArchived12 July 2018 at theWayback Machine,Sports Illustrated,11 July 2018
  111. ^"Sporting vence Vitória de Setúbal com 'bis' de Nani"[Sporting defeat Vitória de Setúbal with brace from Nani] (in Portuguese). Rádio e Televisão de Portugal. 18 August 2018.Retrieved9 December2021.
  112. ^Cole, Richard (26 January 2019)."Penalties smile on Sporting again as Lions retain Taça da Liga crown".PortuGOAL.Retrieved9 December2021.
  113. ^"Orlando City SC Signs Four-Time Premier League Champion, UEFA Euros Champion Nani | Orlando City Soccer Club".Archivedfrom the original on 19 February 2019.Retrieved19 February2019.
  114. ^Quillen, Ian Nicholas (2 March 2019)."Orlando City SC 2, New York City FC 2 – 2019 MLS Match Recap".MLS Soccer.Retrieved11 October2020.
  115. ^"Orlando City SC 4, Colorado Rapids 3 2019 MLS Match Recap".mlssoccer.com.Archivedfrom the original on 12 December 2019.Retrieved7 April2019.
  116. ^Parsons, Brant (August 2020)."Watch: Orlando City's Nani scores the game-winning penalty kick".Orlando Sentinel.Archivedfrom the original on 1 August 2020.Retrieved1 August2020.
  117. ^"Nani double lifts Orlando City past Minnesota into MLS is Back final".www.theguardian.com.6 August 2020.Retrieved20 June2023.
  118. ^"Portland Timbers win MLS is Back Tournament after edging Orlando City in final".www.goal.com.
  119. ^"ORLvsCIN 05-01-2021".Major League Soccer.1 May 2021.Retrieved18 September2024.
  120. ^Hunte, Sydney (30 June 2021)."Recap: Orlando City SC 3, Atlanta United 2".Major League Soccer.Retrieved18 September2024.
  121. ^"Orlando City's Nani named Week 16 MLS Player of the Week".Major League Soccer.2 August 2021.Retrieved18 September2024.
  122. ^The Associated Press (21 May 2021)."Nani suspended for 2 games for making contact with official".The Seattle Times.Archivedfrom the original on 28 July 2021.Retrieved26 July2024.
  123. ^"Nani announces departure from Orlando City SC after contract expires".Major League Soccer.
  124. ^"NANI JOINS VENEZIA FC".Venezia.14 January 2022.Retrieved14 January2022.
  125. ^"LUÍS NANI DEPARTS VENEZIA FC".Venezia. 8 July 2022.Retrieved10 July2022.
  126. ^"Melbourne Victory Signs Portuguese Legend Luis Nani".Melbourne Victory.12 July 2022.Retrieved12 July2022.
  127. ^"Nani makes Victory debut as Manchester United stay perfect in pre-season".KEEPUP.15 July 2022.
  128. ^"Injury Update: Luis Nani".Melbourne Victory.7 January 2023.Retrieved10 January2023.
  129. ^"Injury shocker: ALM star Nani ruptures ACL".ESPN.com.8 January 2023.Retrieved10 January2023.
  130. ^"Injury blow for Victory's Nani as ACL rupture confirmed".Reuters.8 January 2023.Retrieved10 January2023.
  131. ^"Luis Nani departs Melbourne Victory".Melbourne Victory.31 May 2023.
  132. ^"Nani oficializado como reforço do Adana Demirspor"[Nani officialized as reinforcement of Adana Demirspor] (in European Portuguese).Record.13 July 2023.Retrieved13 July2023.
  133. ^"Yukatel Adana Demirspor ayrılığı duyurdu"[Yukatel Adana Demirspor announces separation].beinsports(in Turkish). 13 May 2024.Retrieved13 May2024.
  134. ^"Turkish Football Federation Page of Nani".TFF.Retrieved13 May2024.
  135. ^"Ex-Man Utd, Portugal winger Nani retires".ESPN.com.8 December 2024.Retrieved8 December2024.
  136. ^"Nani: Former Man Utd, Sporting and Portugal winger retires".BBC Sport.8 December 2024.
  137. ^Demetriou, Greg (23 May 2006)."France off to a flyer against hosts".UEFA. Archived fromthe originalon 15 January 2016.Retrieved29 January2011.
  138. ^ab"Nani ESPN Profile".ESPN Soccernet. 10 January 2011. Archived fromthe originalon 28 June 2011.Retrieved10 January2011.
  139. ^Haisma, Marcel."European U-21 Championship 2007 – Final Tournament Details".Rec.Sport.Soccer Statistics Foundation.Archivedfrom the original on 14 May 2011.Retrieved29 January2011.
  140. ^"Israel U21 0–4 Portugal U21".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 16 June 2007.Archivedfrom the original on 14 December 2013.Retrieved29 January2011.
  141. ^Lansley, Peter (18 June 2007)."Nani recovers quickly to give Portugal boost".The Sunday Times.Archived fromthe originalon 29 June 2011.Retrieved29 January2011.
  142. ^Hackett, Robin (30 August 2007)."Scolari recalls Nani".Sky Sports.BSkyB.Archivedfrom the original on 23 October 2012.Retrieved30 August2007.
  143. ^"Italy 3–1 Portugal: Rampant Azzurri looking good".ESPNsoccernet.ESPN Internet Ventures. 6 February 2008. Archived fromthe originalon 12 April 2009.Retrieved29 November2008.
  144. ^"United duo out for Portugal".Sky Sports.British Sky Broadcasting. 24 March 2008.Archivedfrom the original on 25 March 2008.Retrieved24 March2008.
  145. ^"Belgium 1–2 Portugal".free-football.tv.Free Football. 4 June 2007. Archived fromthe originalon 25 October 2007.Retrieved4 June2007.
  146. ^"Scolari names Portugal squad".Sky Sports.British Sky Broadcasting. 12 May 2008.Archivedfrom the original on 14 May 2008.Retrieved12 May2008.
  147. ^McKenzie, Andrew (19 June 2008)."Portugal 2–3 Germany".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Retrieved19 June2008.
  148. ^"Portugal 5–0 Faroe Islands".ESPN Soccernet. 20 August 2008. Archived fromthe originalon 28 June 2011.Retrieved20 August2008.
  149. ^Mira, Luís (6 September 2009)."Portugal Thrash Sorry Malta".Goal.com.Archivedfrom the original on 13 October 2012.Retrieved22 January2010.
  150. ^"Portugal 2–3 Denmark".ESPN Soccernet. 10 September 2008. Archived fromthe originalon 11 September 2008.Retrieved10 September2008.
  151. ^"Portugal 4–0 Malta".ESPN Soccernet. 14 October 2009. Archived fromthe originalon 25 October 2009.Retrieved14 October2009.
  152. ^"Alves goal gives Portugal advantage".ESPN Soccernet.The Entertainment and Sports Programming Network. 14 November 2009. Archived fromthe originalon 28 June 2011.Retrieved14 November2009.
  153. ^"Portugal secure spot at World Cup".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 18 November 2009.Retrieved18 November2009.
  154. ^Fottrell, Stephen (1 June 2010)."World Cup 2010: Eto'o off as Portugal beat Cameroon".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation.Retrieved1 June2010.
  155. ^"World Cup 2010: Pepe named in Portugal squad".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 1 June 2010.Retrieved1 June2010.
  156. ^"World Cup 2010: Portugal's Nani set for quick recovery".BBC Sport.British Broadcasting Corporation. 13 June 2010. Archived fromthe originalon 25 October 2010.Retrieved13 June2010.
  157. ^"Portugal 3–1 Denmark".ESPN Soccernet. 8 October 2010. Archived fromthe originalon 25 October 2010.Retrieved8 October2010.
  158. ^"Mühsamer Auftakt: Gomez löst den Knoten".kicker(in German). 9 June 2012.Archivedfrom the original on 10 June 2012.Retrieved9 June2012.
  159. ^"Die Deutschen hatten Glück beim Tor von Gomez"[The Germans had luck at goal from Gomez].Die Welt(in German). 9 June 2012.Archivedfrom the original on 10 June 2012.Retrieved9 June2012.
  160. ^"Varela strikes to save Portugal".FIFA.com. 23 June 2014. Archived fromthe originalon 26 June 2014.Retrieved23 June2014.
  161. ^Michael Butler (22 June 2016)."Hungary 3-3 Portugal".The Guardian.Archivedfrom the original on 12 July 2016.Retrieved11 July2016.
  162. ^Atkin, John (25 June 2016)."Quaresma snatches extra-time win for Portugal".UEFA.Archivedfrom the original on 26 June 2016.Retrieved26 June2016.
  163. ^Piotr Koźmiński; Joseph Walker (30 June 2016)."Poland 1-1 Portugal".UEFA.com.Archivedfrom the original on 12 July 2016.Retrieved11 July2016.
  164. ^Rob Smyth (6 July 2016)."Portugal 2-0 Wales".The Guardian.Archivedfrom the original on 10 July 2016.Retrieved11 July2016.
  165. ^"Portugal striker Cristiano Ronaldo forced off injured in Euro 2016 final".ESPN FC. 10 July 2016.Archivedfrom the original on 11 July 2016.Retrieved10 July2016.
  166. ^Doyle, Paul (24 June 2017)."New Zealand 0-4 Portugal: Confederations Cup – as it happened".The Guardian.Archivedfrom the original on 11 January 2018.Retrieved29 August2019.
  167. ^"Revealed: Every World Cup 2018 squad - 23-man & preliminary lists & when will they be announced? - Goal.com".Goal.com. 4 June 2018.Archivedfrom the original on 17 May 2018.Retrieved17 May2018.
  168. ^"Nearly half Portugal's Euro squad to miss World Cup".SBS. 18 May 2018.
  169. ^ab"Nani".ESPN Soccernet.ESPN. Archived fromthe originalon 10 September 2007.Retrieved6 November2010.
  170. ^"Barclays Premier League top scorers, player news & teams of the week".Premier League.Archivedfrom the original on 3 December 2010.Retrieved30 January2011.
  171. ^Andy Brassell (9 July 2016)."Nani out of the wings for Portugal to share centre stage at Euro 2016".The Guardian.Archivedfrom the original on 20 August 2016.Retrieved29 August2016.
  172. ^Lawrence, Amy (10 June 2007)."Dancing Nani leads Portugal's new generation".The Guardian.Archivedfrom the original on 3 December 2013.Retrieved9 January2011.
  173. ^McDonnell, David (27 July 2007)."Fergie bans Nani's celebration".Daily Mirror.Archived fromthe originalon 26 February 2008.Retrieved12 May2008.
  174. ^Hibbs, Ben (23 August 2007)."Nani feels settled at United".Manchester United F.C.Archivedfrom the original on 14 November 2012.Retrieved25 August2007.
  175. ^Endlar, Andrew."Nani".StretfordEnd.co.uk.Archivedfrom the original on 30 April 2012.Retrieved13 November2010.
  176. ^abcdefgh"Nani: Summary".Soccerway.Perform Group.Archivedfrom the original on 19 August 2018.Retrieved19 August2018.
  177. ^ab"Football player: Nani".EU-Football.info.Archivedfrom the original on 19 August 2018.Retrieved19 August2018.
  178. ^"Nani: Overview".Premier League.Archivedfrom the original on 18 April 2018.Retrieved17 April2018.
  179. ^"Spurs' Gareth Bale wins PFA player of the year award".BBC Sport. 17 April 2011.Archivedfrom the original on 4 April 2019.Retrieved24 May2018.
  180. ^"Premier League Player Stats - Assists".premierleague.com.Retrieved1 June2022.Select season in the "Filter by season" drop-down menu.
  181. ^Froggatt, Mark (18 May 2011)."Nani is players' choice".Manchester United.Archivedfrom the original on 21 May 2011.Retrieved23 May2011.
  182. ^"Liga: Nani eleito melhor jogador de outubro/novembro"(in Portuguese). TVI24. 14 December 2014.Archivedfrom the original on 18 March 2020.Retrieved18 March2020.
  183. ^"Adrien Silva e William Carvalho em destaque nos Prémios Stromp"[Adrien Silva and William Carvalho highlighted at the Stromp Awards] (in Portuguese).Rádio e Televisão de Portugal.29 November 2013.Archivedfrom the original on 4 September 2017.Retrieved4 September2017.
  184. ^"2019 MLS All-Star Roster".Major League Soccer.Archivedfrom the original on 15 July 2019.Retrieved14 July2019.
  185. ^"2021 MLS All-Star Team Roster".MLSsoccer.
  186. ^"Seleção recebe insígnias de Marcelo no Porto"[National team receives insignia from Marcelo in Porto] (in Portuguese).Diário de Notícias.25 August 2016.Archivedfrom the original on 11 August 2017.Retrieved11 August2017.
edit
Wikimedia Commons has media related toNani.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Nani_(footballer)&oldid=1274017673"