Manchester United cult hero Nani received a heartfelt message on social media from one Real Madrid legend after he announced his retirement from football.
Nani found success at Old Trafford after legendary former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson signed him from Sporting CP in 2007.
During his time at the Premier League club, the 38-year-old Portuguese former winger lifted four Premier League titles, a Champions League and two League Cups.
Nani would deeply impress at times with his flair and skill on the pitch, but the United cult hero was often criticised for his lack of consistency.
The former United star remained at Old Trafford after Sir Alex Ferguson retired before he returned to Sporting CP for a loan spell in 2014.
Nani would mark his exit from the Red Devils in 2015 and the United cult hero went on to sign for Turkish side Fenerbahce.
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Nani of CF Estrela da Amadora with Geovany Quenda of Sporting CP in action during the Liga Portugal Betclic match between Sporting CP and CF Estrel...
Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images
Real Madrid legend sends message to Nani
Following his Manchester United playing career, Nani played for the likes of Valencia, Orlando City and Melbourne Victory before he called it time on football.
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The former United and Portugal winger left Turkish side Adana Demirspor in the summer before he signed for Portuguese club Estrella Amadora.
Nani netted once in 10 appearances for Estrella Amadora before he took to Instagram and confirmed his retirement on Sunday.
The ex-Sporting CP star’s retirement was met with a flood of tributes, including from United legends Cristiano Ronaldo and David de Gea.
Real Madrid legend Pepe has become one of the latest figures to send former Portugal teammate Nani a touching tribute to mark his retirement.
Real Madrid legend Pepe sends message to Nani after the Manchester United cult hero announced his retirement. Credit: Instagram
Real Madrid legend Pepe sends message to Nani after the Manchester United cult hero announced his retirement. Credit: Instagram
“Big Nanaca, I wish you all the best brother in this beautiful new phase of life. Big hug Grande,” he wrote.
Former Portugal defender Bruno Alves, meanwhile, praised Nani for his “strong career” and the “magic” that the United cult hero brought to football.
“My dear friend! Example of how you changed your life and everyone around you, an exemplary career,” he wrote.
“You have fulfilled the profession of soccer player at the top with the greatest competence and excellence!
“Strength in the transition and many other beautiful things ahead. Congratulations on a strong career hug [sic] and thank you for the magic you brought to football.”
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What Nani said in retirement statement
Nani made 230 appearances for the Red Devils and he scored 41 times and registered 70 assists for United during his time at Old Trafford.
The former United player enjoyed success on the international stage with Portugal and made 109 appearances for his country, including lifting the Euro 2016 title.
Posting his retirement announcement on social media, Nani said: “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 so many unforgettable memories
“Time to turn a new leaf and focus on new goals and dreams. See you soon!
“Obrigado. Thank you. Gracias. Grazie. Tesekkurler.”
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