You have to feel sorry for Nani. His ex- Manchester United team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo was always going to be a tough act to follow.
But fans expected Nani to step into his shoes when Ronaldo left even though they are very different style of player.
So much for that thought. Depsite Alex Ferguson’s denial this week, the Portuguese winger is continually linked with a move away from Old Trafford.
A number of factors have led to this supposed parting of the ways.
Nani’s inherent ability to be consistently inconsistent has played a part in his fall down the pecking order at Old Trafford, behind Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young.
Then there was United’s attempt to dispense with wingers and play a diamond formation which left Nani redundant.
And thirdly there was perceived attitude problems with a spot of training ground handbags with United reserve player Davide Petrucci getting on Ferguson’s nerves.
Nani is not in the same class as fellow graduates of Sporting Lisbon’s school of wing play like Cristiano Ronaldo and Luis Figo.
Inconsistent delivery
And this season has certainly been poor. In terms of crossing, only 13.3 per cent of Nani’s crosses have been successful, with Valencia (19.2 per cent) and Ashley Young (17 per cent) outshining him.
Even United’s full backs have provided more consistent deliveries through Patrice Evra (25.5 per cent) and Rafael (27.5 per cent).
It is that wastefulness which frustrates fans and managers alike.
But at 26, perhaps it is too early to discard such a naturally talented player – although a talent that has only flickered intermittently.
And it must be noted that he has been struggling with a niggling hamstring problem in recent months – something which Ferguson cited during the week.
United have also reverted back to a system utilizing two wide men which means that Nani will still be of some use for Ferguson at least in the short-term.
The Portugal international’s contract does not expire until June 2014 so United may be wise to see whether there is an upturn in form in the second half of this season.
If Nani’s decline continues then the summer will be the best time for upheaval as January signings can be a bit hit and miss.
