Former Manchester United forward Luis Nani has come out of retirement and sealed a shock move to Kazakhstani side Aktobe.Nani’s retirementNani announced his retirement from professional football in ...
Former Manchester United forward Luis Nani has come out of retirement and sealed a shock move to Kazakhstani side Aktobe.
Nani’s retirement
Nani announced his retirement from professional football in December 2024, at the age of 38.
Having joined United in 2007 from Sporting CP, Nani helped the club win four Premier League titles and the Champions League trophy in 2008.
He also won the Community Shield, two League Cups and the 2008 FIFA Club World Cup.
At Old Trafford, Nani’s blend of audacious skill, infectious passion, and acrobatic goal celebrations cemented his status as a cult hero.
The former Portugal international departed United in 2014, returning to Sporting as part of a deal for defender Marcos Rojo.
After that, he became a bit of a journeyman, enjoying spells in Turkey, Spain, Italy, Australia and the United States. His last club was Estrela Amadora in his hometown.
Now, Nani has confirmed that he has returned to football, signing for FC Aktobe.
Nani pulls out of retirement
He wrote on Instagram, “I’m very happy to have joined FC Aktobe and I am looking forward to contributing to the development of the club and football in Kazakhstan.”
“I would like to thank the owner of the club Mr. Nurlan Artykbaev, chairman Mr. Arman Ospanov and Governor Mr. Askhat Shakharov for their hospitality and support.”
“I was very impressed with the club’s vision for the future and will work hard to take us to new heights, at home and abroad!”
Ben Jacobs notes that Nani’s one-year agreement has a dual purpose: to feature as a player before assuming a wider off-field position to assist with the club’s long-term development.
Nani made 230 appearances for United.
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Category: General Sports
