Nani Joins FC Aktobe with Expanded Role in Development Project

FC Aktobe has officially confirmed that Nani’s contract includes an expanded role within the club’s development initiative, indicating that he may also take on coaching responsibilities. The former Portugal international recently completed the UEFA A Elite Youth Licence course, which emphasizes the development of players aged 13 to 19 and qualifies holders for management positions in elite academies.

In a statement posted on social media, Nani expressed his enthusiasm: “I’m very happy to have joined FC Aktobe and look 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 highly impressed with the club’s vision for the future and will work diligently to help us reach new heights, both domestically and internationally!”

Having last played in Portugal’s top flight for Estrela da Amadora, Nani stated he left with a “sense of duty fulfilled.” However, the innovative project at Aktobe has inspired him to return to the pitch for one final season. With just over a month until the start of the 2026 Kazakhstan Premier League season in March, he is eager to regain his competitive form.

Last season, Aktobe finished fifth in the 14-team league, missing out on a UEFA Conference League qualification spot by five points.

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Nani became a cult figure at Manchester United after joining the club from Sporting CP in 2007, contributing 106 goal involvements in 230 appearances. His efforts helped the team secure four Premier League titles, the Champions League, and two League Cups before his departure in 2015. Since then, he has played for Fenerbahce, Valencia, Lazio, Orlando City, Venezia, Melbourne Victory, and Adana Demirspor.

Interestingly, Nani will not be the only former Premier League player making waves in Kazakhstan’s top division next season. Former Chelsea winger Victor Moses, who was recently released by Luton, has completed a move to FC Kaysar.

Nani may have drawn inspiration from his former United and Portugal teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo, who continues to thrive at the age of 40 and recently signed a contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr that lasts until 2027. It is anticipated that Ronaldo will lead the national team at the 2026 World Cup, aiming to add another prestigious title to his illustrious career and strengthen his case as one of the greatest of all time, particularly in light of his ongoing rivalry with Lionel Messi.