Official: Ex-United star pulls out of retirement as he announces move to shock club

Former Manchester United forward Luis Nani has come out of retirement and sealed a shock move to Kazakhstani side Aktobe. Nani’s retirement Nani announced his retirement from professional football in December 2024, at the age of 38. Having joined United in 2007 from Sporting CP, Nani helped the club win four Premier League titles and the Champions League trophy in 2008. He also won the Community Shield, two League Cups and the 2008 FIFA Club World Cup. At Old Trafford, Nani’s blend of audacious skill, infectious passion, and acrobatic goal celebrations cemented his status as a cult hero. The former Portugal international departed United in 2014, returning to Sporting as part of a deal for defender Marcos Rojo. After that, he became a bit of a journeyman, enjoying spells in Turkey, Spain, Italy, Australia and the United States. His last club was Estrela Amadora in his hometown. Now, Nani has confirmed that he has returned to football, signing for FC Aktobe. Nani pulls out of retirement He wrote on Instagram, “I’m very happy to have joined FC Aktobe and I am looking forward to contributing to the development of the club and football in Kazakhstan.” “I would like to thank the owner of the club Mr. Nurlan Artykbaev, chairman Mr. Arman Ospanov and Governor Mr. Askhat Shakharov for their hospitality and support.” “I was very impressed with the club’s vision for the future and will work hard to take us to new heights, at home and abroad!” Ben Jacobs notes that Nani’s one-year agreement has a dual purpose: to feature as a player before assuming a wider off-field position to assist with the club’s long-term development. Nani has signed a contract with Kazakhstani side Aktobe. One-year deal to both play and take on an expanded role within the club’s development project.🇰🇿 pic.twitter.com/sKUxLh0e64 — Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) January 25, 2026 Nani made 230 appearances for United. The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!