Nani will not return to Orlando City SC next season after the club declined the option for 2022 on his contract.
The 35-year-old star winger played three MLS seasons with Orlando after building his career in Europe with Sporting CP (Portugal), Manchester United (England), Fenerbahce (Turkey), Valencia (Spain) and Lazio (Italy).
Nani also was a mainstay for the Portuguese national team for 12 years, scoring 24 goals and playing in several European Championships and the 2014 World Cup.
In his three years with Orlando City, Nani made 77 appearances (64 starts) and tallied 28 goals and 23 assists. In 2021, he recorded 10 goals and eight assists in 28 games, starting 22.
“We want to thank Nani for the professionalism that he’s shown in his time in Orlando,” Orlando City SC chairman Mark Wilf said. “Even in the short time since we’ve taken over as stewards of this great Club, we have had great respect for Nani’s passion and abilities, while he led us as Captain. We wish him the best moving forward.”
Nani bid farewell to the fans in Orlando on social media Friday.
“All good things come to an end. After 3 amazing seasons, full of great moments, new friendships and sporting success, I will be leaving Orlando City,” Nani wrote.
“Orlando is a city I can call home, with great people and fantastic supporters, but my contract has ended and there was a decision by the club not to extend it. It was an honor captaining the club for its first ever playoff appearances and reaching the final of the MLS is Back Tournament.
“I shall never forget how the fans and community supported me and my family ever since the moment we arrived in Florida. You will have in me a friend and a fan for the future. I wish you all the best.”
Official statement pic.twitter.com/YLVM6Jh9PD
— Nani (@luisnani) November 26, 2021
–Field Level Media
