Nani misses out on the World Cup this summer after picking up a shoulder injury just before the tournament kicked off. After enjoying such a great second half to the season for United, it’s recognised as a big loss for the competition that Nani is absent.

He has today revealed his feelings on the situation after returning to Portugal.

“I have left the Portugal squad in South Africa because I am no longer necessary there,” Nani said. “I do not have words to explain my feelings at the moment I learned of the injury. For me, it was an unexpected situation and a big nightmare that I will never forget. After the injury, my team-mates asked me to stay, but I am a footballer and if I could not help the squad then the best solution is to return to Portugal to start my physical recuperation. My feelings are those of pain, rage, sadness and bitterness, but this is football.”