Nani: A Future at Old Trafford Or Elswhere?

There is no arguing that Nani has had a rather disappointing season at Old Trafford. Going from a key player in Sir Alex's super-squad at the end of last season, to now being just another inconsistent performer gathering dust in the changing rooms.

After all the hype surrounding the Portuguese winger's pricey move to Manchester United in 2007, he has hardly proved his worth to the United fans. Nani's move to Old Trafford was meant to see him playing regular football on the left wing and being ultimately looked at as the ideal long-term replacement for United veteran Ryan Giggs. Unfortunately, maybe this is not to be?

This season has been a trip down memory lane for Giggsy. He has rolled back the years on countless occasions this term, with some simply astonishing performances.

Although the 35 year old has only scored one goal in the league this year, it was one that United fans will always remember. That crucial weave through West Ham defenders to coolly slot a low shot into the far bottom-right corner was enough to see United tick off the Hammers with a 1-0 victory.

Following speculation in February of this year linking Giggs with a retirement from football altogether, the Welsh legend signed a one-year contract extension that will keep him at the club until June 2010. To top a fantastic season off, Giggs was awarded with PFA Player of the Season—an astonishing achievement for the left-sided midfielder.

Another in-form player that has knocked Nani off his perch this season is Ji-Sung Park. Finally staying fit after countless injuries, the South Korean international has often been Sir Alex's favourite for the left wing position, with Giggsy roaming in the centre.

Park's high work rate and determination has solidified his place in the Premier League side, although sometimes Nani has been the pick for European nights and cup clashes.

With the constant headache of players threatening his position at the club, such as new Serbian youngster Zoran Tosic, and also the rumour of United chasing Antonio Valencia, Nani is being put under immense pressure, especially from United fans.

After his expensive transfer from Sporting Lisbon, all eyes are on the 22-year-old Portuguese international to step up to the challenge of cementing his position at Old Trafford. His bad decision-making and selfish style of play has got United fans thinking maybe he wasn't the right man to purchase as a replacement for Giggs.

I believe Nani is a fantastic player. He has attacking flair, determination, speed, and the skill to cement himself in the United starting XI. It is unfair to criticise Nani about his general playing style when he only gets minimal game time. In order to gain experience and consistency he must be playing regular football. But when he does get his opportunities, he must make them count!