Former Manchester United star Nani has spoken candidly about the growing discipline concerns at Old Trafford under head coach Ruben Amorim. According to the Portuguese winger, situations currently unfolding at Manchester United would have been almost unthinkable during the club’s golden era under legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Nani’s comments arrive at a time when Amorim’s authority has come under intense scrutiny, following a series of high-profile disciplinary decisions involving some of United’s younger players. While the current manager has attempted to impose strict standards, Nani believes the cultural shift at the club makes enforcing discipline far more complex than it once was.
Garnacho Sale Highlights Tensions at Old Trafford
The debate intensified after Manchester United agreed to sell Alejandro Garnacho to Chelsea in a deal reportedly worth £40 million. The decision followed public criticism of Amorim by Garnacho and his brother, Roberto, a move that was viewed internally as crossing a line.
Amorim’s response was swift and uncompromising, signaling that no player—regardless of talent or potential—would be allowed to undermine managerial authority. For many observers, the transfer marked a clear attempt by the new coach to assert control during a turbulent transitional period.
The situation was further complicated when Amorim publicly questioned the mentality of some of United’s young players. His comments came after images circulated on social media showing Kobbie Mainoo, his stepbrother Jordan Mainoo-Hames, Chido Obi, and Harry Amass, which were widely interpreted as subtle digs at the manager.
Nani: Ferguson Would Not Tolerate It
For Nani, such incidents reflect a lack of internal control that would never have been accepted under Sir Alex Ferguson.
“Impossible—absolutely impossible,” Nani said. “If a player caused problems back then, Sir Alex would remove him from the team immediately. One match out was usually enough to make you understand. If your behavior wasn’t right, you didn’t play again until it changed.”
The former Portugal international, who made over 200 appearances for Manchester United, emphasized that no individual was ever bigger than the club during Ferguson’s reign.
“Not Ronaldo, not Rooney, not Giggs—everyone was the same,” he added. “If your attitude didn’t meet the standards, there was always a consequence.”
Personal Lessons From Nani’s United Career
Nani revealed that he personally experienced Ferguson’s uncompromising discipline early in his Old Trafford career. After delivering an impressive performance in one match, he unexpectedly found himself sidelined for several weeks.
“I complained, I even asked Cristiano Ronaldo why I wasn’t playing,” Nani recalled. “But deep down I knew there was something I needed to improve.”
Rather than dwelling on frustration, Nani said he used the setback as motivation. “Once I understood what was expected, I worked harder and changed. That’s what young players today need—clear rules and discipline.”
Strong Dressing-Room Leaders Made the Difference
Beyond the manager, Nani stressed that Manchester United’s dressing room during the Ferguson era was policed by powerful senior figures. Players such as Rio Ferdinand, Gary Neville, and Ryan Giggs played a crucial role in maintaining standards.
“They didn’t hesitate to call players out if someone wasn’t giving everything in training or matches,” Nani said. “That mentality came from the manager and spread throughout the squad.”
According to Nani, this internal accountability created an environment where discipline was self-enforcing, reducing the likelihood of public disputes or social media controversies.
Faith in Amorim’s Long-Term Vision
Despite his criticism, Nani stopped short of writing off Manchester United’s current direction. He expressed confidence that Ruben Amorim has the qualities required to rebuild the club, even if the process is proving difficult in his first 13 months in charge.
“He’s young, ambitious, and very clear in his ideas,” Nani explained. “The Premier League is tougher than any other league, especially for a coach coming in for the first time. But we’ve already seen improvement from last season to this one.”
Nani believes further progress will follow. “Next season, I expect another step forward.”
Praise for New Signings
Nani also singled out Amorim’s recent signings, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, for praise. In his view, both players have adapted quickly and brought much-needed intensity and responsibility to the squad.
“They’re settling in well, taking responsibility, scoring goals, and fighting for the team,” Nani said. “These are the types of players Manchester United need.”
A Foundation for the Future
While discipline issues continue to dominate headlines, Nani remains optimistic that Manchester United are laying the groundwork for a stronger future. He believes that with the right balance of authority, mentality, and recruitment, the club can rediscover the identity that once made it feared across Europe.
“The process takes time,” Nani concluded. “But if discipline and standards are restored, Manchester United can move forward again.”
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