A Manchester United legend has remarkably come out of retirement to sign for a Kazakhstan club.
Former Portugal winger Nani, 39 last featured for Lisbon club Estrela de Amadora and retired from playing in December 2024. But the Champions League winner under the great Sir Alex Ferguson has made a staggering U-turn on his decision and will once again don his football boots, now for Kazakh club FC Aktobe.
The four-time Premier League champion has signed a one-year contract with the Kazakhstan Premier League club, based in the western Kazakhstan region bordering Russia in Central Asia, which also includes an expanded role within the club's development project.
Nani - FC Aktobe
Nani has signed for Kazakhstan Premier League club FC Aktobe
Speaking about the move to his new club, Nani said: “I am very excited about this new project and about the opportunity to help develop football at the club and in Kazakhstan.
“FC Aktobe offers excellent conditions and I was very warmly welcomed. I feel that together we can work to elevate the club not only domestically but also internationally.”
The club added: "Nani is regarded by FC Aktobe's structure as an international reference figure, capable of contributing to the growth and global projection of both the club and Kazakh football."
Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani
Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani celebrate winning the Champions League (Image: Getty Images)
Nani joined United from Sporting in June 2007 in a deal worth around £21million. The winger scored 41 goals in 230 games for the Red Devils and lifted the Champions League, Premier League four times and two League Cups during eight years at Old Trafford.
After leaving Manchester, Nani’s career took on a journeyman adventure, playing for Fenerbahce, Valencia, Lazio and Sporting again before embarking on a switch to the MLS with Orlando City.
Nani made another short return to Europe at Venezia in Serie A before heading to Australia with Melbourne Victory.
The 112-time Portugal international also turned out for Turkish top-flight side Adana Demirspor before initially hanging up his boots back in Lisbon. But his latest move to Aktobe marks Nani’s 10th club in as many years.
Since retiring, Nani had dedicated his time to his Football Academy and completed the UEFA A Elite Youth License course.
The license is one of the highest qualifications for coaches in Europe and focuses on the development of teenage talents. Nani can also take up management roles in elite academies with the qualification.