Luís Carlos Almeida da Cunha, known to the footballing world simply as Nani, has officially ended his professional career after 28 remarkable years. Born in Amadora on 17 November 1986, the star who would leave his name etched in clubs worldwide began shining at just 10 years old when he was no longer Luís Carlos but Nani.
His first steps in football were with a small club in Queluz, but at 17, Sporting CP discovered him. Joining Alvalade as a youth player, he graduated to the senior team at 19 and spent two seasons there, quickly attracting the attention of other clubs.
In 2007, Manchester United signed him for €25 million. Over the course of eight seasons (2007–2015) with the club, Nani enjoyed tremendous success, including winning the Champions League. He returned to Sporting on loan for one season before embarking on an international journey with stints at Fenerbahçe, Valencia, Lazio, Venezia, and others. In 2018/19, he returned to Sporting for another season before heading to Orlando City.
This season (2024/25), he joined Estrela da Amadora but decided to end his career on 8 December 2024, before completing the season.
A recent personal loss—the passing of his father—seems to have prompted Nani to reassess his life and priorities. On social media, the man who once turned down offers from Porto and Benfica out of loyalty to Sporting CP and its fans wrote his farewell:
“The time has come to say goodbye. I have decided to end my career as a professional player. It has been an incredible journey, and I want to thank everyone who helped and supported me through the highs and lows of a career that lasted over 20 years and gave me so many unforgettable memories. Time to turn the page and focus on new goals and dreams. See you soon!”
Nani represented Portugal 112 times, playing a pivotal role in the country’s historic Euro 2016 victory. Paying tribute, the President of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), Fernando Gomes, described him as “not just an excellent player but also a model of perseverance, inspiring generations of young people in Portugal and beyond.”
Sporting’s president, Frederico Varandas, also honoured the club’s former star, who inspired the chant “Ohhhh, lá vai o Nani.” Varandas wrote:
“A legend of football who will forever remain in our history! 136 games with the lion on his chest. Best of luck in this new chapter.”
Nani’s illustrious career includes triumphs such as European Champion, Portuguese Cups, Champions League, Premier League titles, and a Club World Cup, among others.
Fate played its part in his final official match, which fittingly took place at Alvalade, the ground where he was nurtured as a player. Facing Sporting—then in fine form under Rúben Amorim—the match ended 5-1 to Sporting. It seemed like a moment from another era (forgive this Lioness’s subdued roar).
Looking ahead, Nani recently signed an agreement with Seixal Council to develop his academy at a sports complex in Pinhal Novo, where he resides.
Now, Nani moves on to score goals in different “nets,” and we wish him all the success in this new chapter. May his famous acrobatics and the chant “Ohhhh, lá vai Nani” continue to echo in the hearts of his fans!
Good luck, Nani!
