Whatever happened to former Manchester United star, Federico Macheda?
The Italian produced one of the greatest Premier League moments ever on his debut for Manchester United under Sir Alex Ferguson – a stunning debut strike against Aston Villa to win the match in the dying embers.
It looked like there was a new star at Old Trafford. Macheda was then in and around the first-team squad for the remainder of the season, and although scoring in his very next game, failed to provide much of an impact after this.
Despite this, he will always be forever ingrained in Manchester United folklore as a bit of a cult hero, who produced a moment of sheer joy for United fans.
Federico Macheda shares photo with Nani
Macheda played in what was a sublime Manchester United side. The team against Villa alone on that fateful day included the likes of Carlos Tevez, Cristiano Ronaldo, Michael Carrick and even current Red Devil – Jonny Evans.
Another man who started that day was Portuguese winger, Nani. Macheda came on for him in the 61st minute to make his debut.
The pair now both play in Turkey, when their two sides meet at the weekend. Macheda took to Instagram after to snap a photo with his former teammate.
It read: “Amazing player but mostly a great person. Was very nice to see you again amigooo.”
- READ MORE: Man Utd cult hero Nani identifies two important traits missing from Erik ten Hag’s current squad
Federico Macheda vs Nani
So how did the game end between the two? Well, the points were shared between the former Manchester United duo. The Super Lig game finished 1-1 with Macheda playing for Ankaraguca, whilst Nani played for Adana Demirspor.
Neither player started the game. The Italian was utilised as a second-half substitute in the 55th minute, whilst the now 37-year-old Nani was introduced in the 87th.
Neither had a significant impact on the clash, but it’s nice to see these two cult heroes sharing a pitch again.
READ MORE: Join the conversation with the United in Focus Whatsapp group
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
