“He could’ve been something even more special” - Jose Fonte names Portugal star with ‘unreal’ potential who lacked the right focus
Former Portugal defender Jose Fonte has named Nani as one player who failed to fulfill his potential. Nani played for top clubs like Sporting CP and Manchester United.
He was one of the most skilful wingers in the world in his heyday. In fact, very few current wingers can match the elegance and quality Nani possessed. Nevertheless, his career didn't pan out as expected.
Despite showcasing flashes of his undeniable brilliance, Nani failed to reach the pinnacle of his powers. Fonte has highlighted what hindered Nani, telling Rio Ferdinand on Legends Lounge:
"Physically, Nani was unreal. Absolutely (he should have concentrtated taking care of himself better off the pitch). He should've had a little bit more focus.
"I'm not saying he didn't have focus because if we are at this level, he needs to have some kind of drive and focus. But his potential was very, very high. Although he had an amazing career, he could've been something even more special."
Watch Jose Fonte's interview here:
Nani played 230 games for Manchester United, scoring 41 goals and providing 70 assists. He also played 112 games for Portugal, scoring 24 goals and providing 24 assists.
Nani was a part of the Portugal side that won the UEFA Euro 2016. He, in fact, captained the team in the final after Cristiano Ronaldo was forced to go off due to an injury early on.
Nani chooses Portugal star over Manchester United prodigy Kobbie Mainoo
In a recent interview with talkSPORT, Nani was asked to choose a combined XI of Portugal and England. He picked compatriot Vitinha ahead of Manchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo.
While Nani acknowledged Mainoo's quality, he noted that the Englishman needs to learn more while Vitinha has been doing fantastic (via United in Focus):
"Vitinha. Mainoo is too young. He needs to learn more. He is a Manchester United player but he needs some time. Vitinha is doing great."
Vitinha was a part of the Portugal side that reached the UEFA Euro 2024 quarter-finals. The PSG midfielder was arguably one of the best players for Roberto Martinez's team, who lost to France on penalties (5-3) after a goalless 120 minutes in Stuttgart on Friday (July 5).