Nani took a step backwards this passing season. From being Manchester United’s best player in their last title season, Nani seemed to fall behind both Ashley Young and Antonio Valencia for wing supremacy. Maybe the success went straight to his head, or maybe he just isn’t as talented as many, including himself, believe.

He’s still a special talent, but the numbers did suggest that something did go amiss during his rise to the top of the game – He started less matches, finishing with 8 goals and 10 assists in comparison to the 9 goals and 14 assists from the previous season. But numbers don’t always tell the story in this sport. He just didn’t seem as vital for Alex Ferguson as the season progresses when compared to his previous role.

Nani has been with Manchester United for 5 seasons, being another talented winger arriving from Sporting CP, purchased for €25.5 million. Playing behind Cristiano Ronaldo meant that Nani never got a real, long chance to prove himself. But Ronaldo went on to Real Madrid, and it seemed to do Nani a world of good. This year, along with all the other problems Manchester United had, something didn’t work out.

A return to his individual ways – too much trickery and solo efforts instead of consistent and accurate crossing. United’s team play seemed to benefit more with other options on the wings, while an injury also held the 25 year old back a bit. Still, it seemed like his position in the hierarchy took a hit.

Luís Carlos Almeida da Cunha, often referred to as MJ due to his likeness with a young Michael Jackson, has two more years left on his contract at Old Trafford. Still, the sides are in negotiations for a longer-term deal, which is causing Nani to do one of the following – Either honestly look for outside interest, in the Premier League or the rest of Europe OR just trying to put the pressure on United.

I am really happy but I don’t know about my future. Now I will study opportunities. Football is not only about England or Spain. It is possible to enjoy success in other countries. My agent is waiting on news about United. We have presented a counter-offer and now we are waiting on an offer from the club. 

There hasn’t been any solid interest in Nani from other clubs this season, but Latin players always have a draw for the Spanish La Liga, although that usually focuses on transfers to either Real Madrid or Barcelona. Both of them don’t look, at the moment, like clubs with any interest in Nani.

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