MLS - Nani part ways with Orlando City SC after three seasons
Nani, 35, has left Orlando City SC after three years with the club as his contract expires, he revealed on Twitter on Friday. Orlando revealed later that evening that they had refused Nani's contract option.
He first joined the Lions as a Designated Player in February 2019, having previously played for Manchester United, Sporting CP, and other clubs, as well as becoming Portugal's fifth-most capped player.
Nani scored 28 goals and added 23 assists in 77 games with Orlando over three seasons (64 starts). The winger was a two-time participant in the MLS All-Star Game presented by Target, as well as a key contributor in Orlando's back-to-back Audi MLS Cup Playoffs and MLS is Back Tournament Final appearances.
“Orlando is a city I can call home, with great people and fantastic supporters, but my contract has ended and there was a decision by the club not to extend it,” Nani wrote on social media. “It was an honor captaining the club for its first-ever playoff appearances and reaching the final of the MLS is Back Tournament.
“I shall never forget how the fans and community supported me and my family ever since the moment we arrived in Florida. You will have in me a friend and a fan for the future. I wish you all the best.”
Official statement pic.twitter.com/YLVM6Jh9PD
— Nani (@luisnani) November 26, 2021