Luís Carlos Almeida da Cunha, the Portuguese football icon known as Nani, has ended his retirement to sign for Kazakhstan Premier League club FC Aktobe. The former Manchester United winger, 39, agreed to a one-season contract after announcing his career’s end in December 2024.
His new role includes responsibilities within the club’s development project. FC Aktobe views him as an international reference figure for growth.
Nani’s career boasts many achievements. He won four Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League with Manchester United. He earned 112 caps for Portugal, starting in their Euro 2016 final victory.
His last professional match was for Portuguese side Estrela da Amadora in late 2024. Since retiring, he completed a high-level UEFA coaching qualification.
FC Aktobe finished fifth in the league last season. The new Kazakh season begins in March 2026.
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This move continues a global career path for Nani. After leaving Manchester United in 2015, he played across Europe, the United States, Australia, and Turkey. He now brings his experience to a league also attracting other former Premier League names.
