Here's a name you haven't heard in a while: Nani is back from across the ocean

Remember Luis Carlos Almeida da Cunha? No? Oh, you probably remember him by his catchy nickname Nani. Well, the former Manchester United winger returned from his three-year stint in America and signed for Serie A new boys Venezia FC. The 35-year-old former Portugal international of Cae Verdean descent joined the Venice club on an 18-month contract and will help the Orange-Black-Greens in their bid to remain in the top league.

This is Venezia’s second move of the January transfer window, following their acquisition of Bayern Munich midfielder Michael Cuisance. For Nani it’s a return to Serie A following his year on loan with Lazio some four years ago.

The Portuguese winger is best known for his eight years with Manchester United, from 2007 to 2015. In that time, he scored 41 goals, provided 73 assists and won a number of honours, like four Premier League titles and the 2007/08 Champions League. After leaving Old Trafford, he's had spells with Fenerbahce in Turkey, a loan spell at Lazio and a brief return back home with Sporting Clube de Portugal.

Nani spent the last three seasons in Major League Soccer, captaining Orlando City SC. During his stay with the Lions, he had 28 goals and 23 assists across 77 games. He was named an MLS All-Star in 2019 and 2021.

One of the most exciting players to grace the Premier League, Nani is remembered for his sublime technical ability, dribbling skills and tricks and eye for goal. At his age, he isn't quite as quick as he was in his prime years, but he definitely has some more magic to offer. The question is - will be enough to keep Venezia in Serie A.

SERIE A - ROUND 22

Saturday

17:00: (3.00) Sampdoria (3.20) Torino (2.60)

20:00: (7.25) Salernitana (4.50) Lazio (1.50)

22:45: (1.40) Juventus (4.80) Udinese (9.50)

Sunday

14:30: (2.30) Sassuolo (3.50) Verona (3.25)

17:00: (2.85) Venezia (3.40) Empoli (2.60)

20:00: (1.42) Roma (4.80) Cagliari (8.50)

22:45: (3.15) Atalanta (3.50) Inter (2.35)

Monday

20:30: (3.80) Bologna (3.50) Napoli (2.10)

20:30: (1.35) Milan (5.50) Spezia (9.50)

22:45: (1.50) Fiorentina (4.30) Genoa (7.75)

***odds are subject to change