Former Manchester United and Portugal winger Nani has named his all-time XI of players he featured alongside during a senior career that spanned over 700 matches, but excluded Cristiano Ronaldo.
The 38-year-old, who retired from football in December 2024, made his selection in a video for The Icon League on TikTok, choosing a team made up of former teammates from club and international level.
@theiconleagueWho‘s Missing? 👇 #TheIconLeague♬ Originalton – TheIconLeague
Van der Sar and Ferdinand anchor the back line
In goal, Nani selected Edwin van der Sar, citing the Dutchman’s influence during their trophy-laden spell at Manchester United. The defence is rounded out by Joao Cancelo, Bruno Alves, Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra.
Cancelo played alongside Nani at Valencia and on the international stage, while Alves partnered with him for Portugal and at Turkish club Fenerbahce. Evra and Ferdinand were regular teammates during Nani’s time at Old Trafford under Sir Alex Ferguson.
Midfield: Scholes, Deco and Fernandes
The midfield features three players Nani spoke highly of: Paul Scholes, Deco, and Bruno Fernandes. “One player who really surprised me and impressed me a lot in the beginning was Paul Scholes – he was phenomenal,” Nani said.
He described Deco, who represented Portugal between 2003 and 2010, as “silky and effortless,” while praising Fernandes as “a talisman” during their shared time at Sporting CP.
Rooney, Tevez and Giggs lead the attack
Up front, Nani opted for Wayne Rooney, Carlos Tevez, and Ryan Giggs – all of whom were key figures during United’s dominant period in the late 2000s. “Rooney is a special player. Strong, fantastic quality, shooting, vision – very intelligent. I enjoyed playing with him,” he said.
Picking Tevez, a controversial figure among United fans following his move to city rivals Manchester City, he cited his impact on the pitch.
Giggs, meanwhile, was recognised for his pace and longevity.
Ronaldo left out
Nani’s decision not to include Cristiano Ronaldo, with whom he played 112 times for Portugal and briefly at Manchester United, drew attention. No explanation was given during the segment.
The two were both products of Sporting CP and part of Portugal’s squad that won Euro 2016.
