Nani Opens Up On Venezia Move
Former Portugal international Nani has opened up on his recent move to Italian Serie A side Venezia.
The 35-year-old left Major League Soccer side Orlando City in November last year and recently penned an 18-month contract with the Serie A newcomers.
Nani made an immediate impact on his Venezia debut last weekend, supplying a crucial assist in a 1-1 draw with Empoli, less than two minutes after appearing as a second half substitute.
“I chose Venezia for their ambitious project. I am a football man, and as such I prefer to be in a group where you can find the will to do great things, and this club has such a mentality,” said the former Manchester United man in a press conference.
“What I would like to do is help the young players to grow, try to help their talent blossom, and obviously, in addition to this, to help the team in the offensive phase.
“What I found here is a fantastic group, who welcomed me very well. There are many young people, and consequently there is a great energy and desire to achieve, all elements that are the basis of the growth of a team.
“Since there is a great willingness to work here, and at the same time important qualities, the room for improvement is very high.
“The way to succeed is to stay united and work hard. In fact, if there is one thing that I have learned in the course of my life, and that is, by working with dedication, everything becomes possible.”
“My experience in the States was spectacular. I spent three wonderful years in the MLS that gave me the right push to continue playing football at a high level.”
Venezia are 17th on the Serie A standings, two points above the relegation zone.
Nani has previously played for Manchester United, where he won four Premier League titles and the 2008 UEFA Champions League. He has also turned out for Sporting Lisbon, Lazio, Fenerbahce and Valencia.