Manchester United winger Nani: Barcelona players inspire me to become a better player

Luis Nani, Manchester United

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Manchester United winger Nani has said watching Barcelona’s superstars on television has inspired him in training to become a better footballer.

The Portuguese international has had a good season with United, which saw him end the campaign with the 14 assists to his name – the most in the division – as the Red Devils won their 19th Premier League title.

Barcelona have the current top three players in the world – Lionel Messi, Xavi and Andres Iniesta – according to Fifa, as well as a host of other big names such as David Villa.

But Nani has said that watching them only makes him want to outperform them on the pitch.

“When I am at home and watching TV I think about Barcelona’s players in a totally different way than if I am playing against them,” he told reporters.

“At home, I appreciate the way they play.

“Messi is the best player in the world. I like to see him play and see the things he does. He inspires other players to do different things as well.

“But on the pitch I want to be better than them.

“Every day I am on the training ground I always practice. I want to improve the things I am not good at. I am trying to be mentally stronger.

“I am not perfect but feel with more experience I can contribute more to the team.”

Nani has never started a Champions League final for United and looks set to miss out to Antonio Valencia on the right-hand side of midfield, with the Ecuadorian being a regular since returning from injury.

But Nani is confident that should he be chosen to play on Saturday, he would put in a good display.

He added: “I have played against Argentina and Spain and always done well.

“Barcelona’s football is the same and the players are the same.

“I like to play against teams who play that way. It is good for me.

“I feel happy because I know when I play against those players, it will go right. There is no pressure on me.

“I know my quality. I know what I have been doing for my team-mates.

“The manager knows what he is doing. I have played every game.

“Antonio is just starting now. He has played a couple of games because I needed a rest. Now I am feeling very good so we will let the manager decide.

“Whatever team he picks, I just hope we win.”

Nani’s performances this season saw him awarded the player’s player of the year award, which has pleased the Portuguese who had spent many years in the shadow of international team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo before his departure to Real Madrid.

“That meant a lot to me,” he said.

“It means the people who work with me know what I am doing every day, during training and matches, and recognise my contribution for the team.

“That makes me happy. It is more important than any trophy from the fans or the league.”