Nani was back at Old Trafford on Thursday night for punditry duties as Manchester United secured their place in the Europa League final.
The former Portugal international spent eight years at Manchester United, between 2007 and 2015, making a total of 230 appearances.
Nani was signed by Sir Alex Ferguson as a prospect from Sporting CP after United enjoyed success with the signing of Cristiano Ronaldo from the same club four years prior.
The 38-year-old, who registered 106 goal contributions during his time at United, was spotted back at Old Trafford on Thursday night with some former team-mates, including Paul Scholes and Owen Hargreaves.
The former United trio were part of United’s Champions League-winning side in 2008 and they were at Old Trafford for yet another European night to remember.
Nani also won four Premier League titles during his time in England.
Nani picks perfect night for Old Trafford return
Old Trafford was full of ex-players on Thursday night, with a lot of them working as pundits for the Europa League tie.
One legend who missed the action due to hospitalisation is Rio Ferdinand, with the TNT Sports commentator recently struck with an illness bug.
There was one former player who showed up for the big occasion, with Nani rarely appearing at Old Trafford since leaving United 10 years ago. That can be explained by the fact that he only decided to retire from professional football in December 2024.
With United having a three-goal cushion going into the second leg, Nani arrived at Old Trafford fully expecting his former club to book a place in the eagerly anticipated final and he got his wish after seeing Amorim’s side concede the opener in the 31st minute.
Four goals in the final 20 minutes from Mason Mount (2), Casemiro and Rasmus Hojlund turned the second leg on its head, and United beat Athletic Club 7-1 on aggregate.
Nani took to social media after the match to express his joy at returning to Old Trafford. He explained that nights like that remind him why it will always be his home.
Hopefully, Nani can get a ticket for the final in Bilbao now that he’s getting to enjoy retirement after a long career.
Amorim receives Nani’s backing at Man Utd
TNT Sports took the opportunity to speak to Nani before the match as he joined Scholes and Hargreaves pitchside.
Nani was keen to show support for his compatriot Amorim, who he believes needs time to get things right at United.
“I trust in Ruben,” Nani said. “I believe he will do well for Man United but he needs time.
“I think everyone could see already that he has got potential, but It’s not easy to arrive here and do well straight away. We know there is a team to build.”
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