Nani has risked invoking the considerable wrath of Sir Alex Ferguson by publicly accusing the Manchester United manager of undermining his confidence and painting a picture of a foulmouthed boss who rules Old Trafford by fear.
In an interview with a Portuguese newspaper, Nani has spoken of his disappointment at failing to secure a regular place in the United side. Despite the departure of compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo over the summer, Nani has started only half of the club’s 12 Premier League games this season.
Nani claims that his confidence has been undermined and the winger has raised questions regarding Ferguson’s handling of his career following a £17 million move from Sporting Lisbon in the summer of 2007.
However, Nani is not ready to seek a departure from Old Trafford, even if he has been left disheartened by missing out on some important fixtures for United this season.
When asked if he thought his career was being handled badly, according to the Sun, Nani replied: “As it is now, I think so.
“People expect more from me and it’s not easy. But they are also not doing what they said they were going to. I know it would be better if I scored more goals.
“I can have a spectacular game but nobody guarantees me I will be starting the next match. It shatters your confidence. I did not play the important matches, against Liverpool, Manchester City or Tottenham. Not playing these games, I am a bit sad. But for now I am not considering leaving.”
Nani’s frank account of his travails at Old Trafford will naturally lead to speculation regarding his long-term future under Ferguson as far more stellar names have seen their Old Trafford careers come to an abrupt end after some contentious public statements.
The likes of Roy Keane and Jaap Stam have been victims of Ferguson’s ruthless streak in the past and Nani is only too aware of the fiery nature of one of English football’s more belligerent characters.
“Ferguson is a very complicated man,” Nani said. “He’s tough. If things are all right, then they are all right. But when he thinks something is wrong, everything is screwed.
“He can go from complimenting you to just plain trashing you in a matter of minutes. Has it happened to me? Hell, yes! He’ll say ‘Nani, how could you miss this or this’?
“He shouts at players in front of everyone. No one escapes, everybody is the same. Giggs and Neville suffer most, because they have more experience.
Nani is currently sporting the latest Nike Mercurial Vapor V (not the Superfly) in the Dark Blue/Obsidian Colorway.
Article Courtesy of Soccernet
I reckon Nani is one of the most skillful players in the EPL and should always get a position in the starting line up.