Top Five: Premier League’s Greatest Portuguese

4) Nani

The winger arrived in England in 2007 after he completed a move from Sporting Lisbon to Manchester United in a deal believed to be worth in the region of £22 million. At the tender age of 21, Nani had impressed in his time with Sporting and thus many in Manchester believed he had the potential to match or even surpass compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo’s ability.

But early signs suggested that this would not happen. He would endure a tough first few years in Manchester as he struggled to accustom to life in English football. Despite his evident natural talent, question marks were raised about his attitude and many believed that this would hinder him from fulfilling his potential.

Known mainly for his superb ball skills and exuberant celebrations, the former Sporting man would benefit greatly from the departure of Ronaldo in 2009. United needed someone to fill the void left by Ronaldo’s departure, and Nani would answer these calls as he soon established himself as one of the focal points in a successful Manchester United side.

In the 2009/2010 season Nani enjoyed a fine season, as he scored nine goals in the league and added fourteen assists. These tallies were vital as United won the league, and Nani was praised for his contribution as he was named in the PFA team of the Year and won United’s Player’s Player of the season.

But despite this great season, things went quickly downhill and Nani never lived up to the performances of that season. He was frozen out in the 2012/2013 season and played a bit-part until his departure in 2015. In total, Nani played 230 times for United, scoring 40 goals. He also added 44 assists in his 147 league games.

It is fair to say Nani divided opinion during his stay in England, but despite never reaching his potential, he was still an extremely talented player who on his day was almost unplayable.

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