Nani's Time Is Running Out at Manchester United

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Okay, so how long has Nani been at Manchester United?  He is now in his third full season and for me, he just does not cut the cake at a club as big as the one he is playing for.

To brand him an obvious misfit—like Kleberson or Diego Forlan—would be harsh, because he has not been that bad. But then again, "not that bad" just doesn't do when you play for Manchester United. Those questions and doubts should not even be raised.

I, for one, was surprised not to see the back of him this summer. With Ryan Giggs’ advancing years and Nani’s own indifferent form, I could be forgiven for thinking I was right in believing that Sir Alex would look to the market for a new winger. But he has decided to keep with his hot-and-cold winger, and unfortunately his faith has not been rewarded.

When United signed him in 2005, he was hailed as the next big thing. For an ever-so-short period of time, many believed he was the real deal. Of course, he had to live under the shadow of his compatriot on the other wing, a certain Cristiano Ronaldo.

But while C’Ron has gone on to become the world’s best player—bar none—and moved to the Spanish capital for pastures new, Nani has disappointed with his recent performances and had to face constant calls of criticism from the supporters, often fairly vitriolic.

There is no doubting the man’s talent. You only have to look at his pace and skill to see his ability, but when your final pass is as inept and ineffective at most times as his is, the forwards can only beat the ground with frustration. Berbatov and Rooney have done that many a time this season.

With Ryan Giggs usually being played only one game a week, Nani will undoubtedly get chances to prove his detractors wrong, those who think he cost too much and is not worth his weight in gold. However, he will have to be much, much more consistent if he is to harbor hopes of wearing an United shirt next season.

We have seen brilliant, established players like Juan Sebastian Veron (who, after a great start, petered out into mediocrity at United), being shown the door for continued poor form and failure to fit into the system.

Nani has talent, bags of it, but he must start producing goods, and he must do it soon. If his current poor patch continues, his future as an United player is gravely at risk. He must raise his game, because, as should be all too obvious to him, time is running out.

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