Nani confident at United
Manchester United midfielder Nani has said he has come a long way since joining the club three years ago.
Nani joined Sir Alex Ferguson's side in 2007 from Portuguese club Sporting Lisbon, making the same move as his countryman Cristiano Ronaldo had four years earlier.
Speaking to Inside United, Nani said he had visited the club two years before he signed for United, at 18, and that he was starstruck during his tour of the club's stadium.
"I remember sitting in the first-team dressing room and both of us saying ‘wow, this is Ronaldo’s place’ and ‘this is where Rooney and Giggs sit'! We sat there and said ‘imagine what it would be like to be part of this dressing room one day,’…and then two years later I was here. It was a great feeling when I signed," the winger said.
Improved last season
While Nani's early displays for United showed an obvious talent, it took him a couple of seasons to get settled.
Last season saw the now 23-year-old Nani at his best for the club, scoring four league goals in 23 appearances and noting several crucial assists and inspired attacking play.
Following Ronaldo's departure to Real Madrid last summer, it was Nani who stepped up to fill the huge gap left by the Portuguese star, aided by Wigan's Antonio Valencia, who arrived in 2009.
Nani also said he is grateful to be playing for a club with such rich history, and that Ferguson's faith in his ability has greatly strengthened his confidence.
"The best things for me are being able to play football every day for such a great club and having the opportunity to win trophies each season.
"I’ve learnt a lot in my time here — I'm older, more experienced and I have more confidence. It's my fourth season at the club and it feels like this is home now."
Manchester United face Everton at Goodison Park in Saturday's early kick-off.
Tags: