In a recent interview, Nani recalled a funny and awkward incident that happened during his time at Manchester United under Sir Alex Ferguson.
“One day, Sir Alex Ferguson asked us if someone could take him home after the weekend’s game against Fulham,” Nani said. “I said to him: ‘Okay boss, I’ll take you back, no worries’.”
“Then during the match, at 2-1, we got a penalty and I asked Giggs to let me take it. He accepts but I miss the penalty and Fulham equalised in the 88th minute…”
“After the match, as planned, I took Ferguson home but he didn’t speak to me the whole way.”
Nani’s missed penalty cost Manchester United two points, and it’s understandable that Ferguson was upset. But the fact that he didn’t speak to Nani the whole way home shows just how disappointed he was.
It’s also a testament to Ferguson’s high standards. He expected his players to perform at their best, and he wasn’t afraid to show his displeasure when they didn’t.
Nani’s story is a reminder that even the best players make mistakes. But it’s also a reminder that it’s important to learn from your mistakes and to bounce back stronger.
Nani went on to have a successful career at Manchester United, winning multiple Premier League titles and the Champions League. He is still remembered by United fans as one of the club’s most exciting and talented players.