Is Nani Really the Best He Can Be?



Thumbs up for Confidence: Nani

Manchester United's flying winger Nani indulged in a bit of self-appreciation in a midst of arguments over his seventh goal of the season against Tottenham on Saturday as he claimed he is "one of the top players in the world".
The Portuguese said:

"As a player I think I'm close to being as complete as I can be, now I can say I'm one of the top players in the world.

"I play for the best club in the world and my role in the team is as a decisive player, scoring goals or setting up and so the team can win.

"You have to believe in yourself and believe in your abilities on the pitch. Big games are for big players.

"I want to be one of the best. I'm not scared to play in the big games, they are the most beautiful in football - you play with very high quality.

"Beautiful football, that's what everyone likes. And that helps lift my performance too."

When you are asked who the best player(s) in the world are, the common answers are Lionel Messi and/or Cristiano Ronaldo. Not many people regard Nani as one of the best in the world at the moment, but not many would deny that he has the potential to become a player of superior quality.

For much of his Manchester United career, he was playing in Cristiano Ronaldo's shadow, however, with United lacking much attacking creativity in the midfield, Nani has stood out as one of United's best players so far this season. His flare on the wing, and fearlessness to try something few else in the team would try, mark him out as someone to watch for the opposition team, and someone United should make the most of. His ability is obvious to see, and after these comments, he obviously has the confidence in himself to succeed.

Ability and confidence are the key to success. Nani has both, but he has not yet reached his best - nor is he one of the best in the world, but he is getting excitingly close.