Luis Nani Assures Indonesian Fans Manchester United Will Rise Again

Manchester United legend Luis Nani has once again voiced optimism for his former club, which is currently striving to rediscover its glory days. Speaking at an exclusive meet and greet event at the official adidas store in Pacific Place, South Jakarta, on Friday, October 24, 2025, Nani spoke with a tone full of hope.

“It will be a very difficult period for the club after such a great era. But now we are starting to build a new team, a new club, a new era. And that takes time,” said Nani.

The name Sir Alex Ferguson is synonymous with Manchester United's glory. During his 27-year managerial reign (1986–2013), Ferguson delivered 38 trophies, including 13 Premier League titles and two Champions League trophies. Under his command, United was not just a football club but a dominant institution feared throughout Europe.

However, since Ferguson retired in June 2013, the Red Devils' path has been far from smooth. In the last 12 years, United has been managed by 10 different coaches, from David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, José Mourinho, to Erik ten Hag.

During that period, the club has only managed to add six trophies, mostly from domestic cups, without a single Premier League or Champions League title.

Nani, who experienced the winning DNA of the Ferguson era firsthand, understands that rebuilding the club's foundation is no easy task.

“And we know we are in the right mindset. All the players, everyone understands what we need. They are trying their best. Obviously, you cannot change in a second,” stated Nani, who contributed to 12 trophies for United between 2007–2015.

Hope in the Rúben Amorim Era

This season, Manchester United has started showing signs of revival under new manager Rúben Amorim.

The Portuguese coach, previously successful with Sporting Lisbon, has brought a modern energy and philosophy to Old Trafford. Amorim is known for his attacking tactical approach based on high pressing and ball possession – a style missing since the Ferguson era.

Since his appointment in November 2024, Amorim has gradually instilled discipline and a more dynamic playing style. The results became visible when United defeated Liverpool 2-1 at Anfield – their first win at the home of their arch-rivals in over ten years.

That victory also marked United's first consecutive wins under Amorim, placing them ninth in the Premier League standings with 13 points, just six points behind leaders Arsenal.

“We need to build. There's a lot of work to be done on the pitch. But you can see it. So we are starting to win matches. I hope we can get a few wins in a row. Because that will give more confidence to the players and even the fans,” added Nani.

This Saturday night, United is scheduled to host Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford – a match that could be a crucial momentum for Amorim to maintain the positive trend and restore the faded aura of the “Theatre of Dreams.”

Unwavering Optimism

In Nani's view, who now serves as a global ambassador for various football and charitable activities, United's winning spirit will never die. He believes the club that made his name only needs time to gel again, just like when he, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Wayne Rooney formed the backbone of the team's attack.

“We know that in the near future, the good times will return. So, we have to believe. We need to keep fighting. Give positive energy to the team, to the club. And then we will see the glory,” concluded Nani.

That optimism feels contagious. Because for United fans worldwide, including in Indonesia – one of the club's largest supporter bases in Asia – the words of a legend are more than just nostalgia. They are a promise that the red spirit still burns, waiting for its time to shine again at the pinnacle of world football.