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MANCHESTER UNITED legend Nani is confident that Portugal can clinch the 2026 World Cup, but he cautioned that Cristiano Ronaldo and the team must implement one significant change first.

At 40, Ronaldo is poised for his final chance to secure the one major title that has eluded him throughout his illustrious 23-year career this summer as he leads his national team in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Manchester United players Nani and Cristiano Ronaldo celebrating their Premier League championship.Manchester United legend Nani believes ex-team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal can win the 2026 World Cup Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani celebrate a goal against Hungary in UEFA Euro 2016.Nani insists Ronaldo and the team must first ‘fix’ their environment

However, CR7’s former teammate emphasizes that Portugal must first “fix” their environment and ensure their group of stars – which includes Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot – are united in their goals.

Nani spoke to SunSport on behalf of online casino experts, casino.co.uk : “I believe we need to approach the World Cup with confidence and positivity.

“Everyone knows we have a fantastic group of talented players.

“The only aspect they need to address is the group dynamics and environment. They must be united and share the same objectives.

“If they achieve that, they will undoubtedly perform well in the competition because we have an incredible team. It also depends on how other teams prepare, but we have a strong chance next year.”

Nani is also optimistic about Manchester United's prospects of finishing in the Premier League's top four and returning to the Champions League.

The Red Devils currently sit sixth in the table, just one point away from fourth place, but the club legend insists that every match is crucial, including last month’s game that could haunt his former team.

Nani added: “We know this season is highly competitive. Many teams are performing well, even those outside the traditional big clubs, which is somewhat surprising.

“They need to keep working hard and continue building a strong, competitive squad because there will be matches that seem easier on paper, like their recent home loss to Everton.

“I expected a win in that match, but overall the team has improved significantly. You can see it’s a different squad.

“The way they perform, compete, and play from the first minute to the last is impressive. I believe it's possible to finish in the top four, but we must maintain consistency in our performances.

“How we play and win doesn’t matter; we need to secure victories in every game. The most crucial aspect is to win, build confidence, and keep that momentum going.”

Nani is regarded as one of United’s greatest wingers, with four Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy to his name, but he supports the decision to play without traditional wingers.

The Portuguese coach often prefers to utilize players like Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha behind the center-forward in his favored 3-4-2-1 formation.

Nani stated: “Having traditional wingers was very appealing to the game, as they brought excitement for fans who enjoy seeing different skills, goals, and confident players.

“The mindset of playing from the wing has changed, and wingers were always seen as the entertainers. Now, we are losing a bit of that, and we need to adapt and appreciate the game in a new way.”

Nani on the bench for Fenerbahce SK v Adana Demirspor.Nani believes Manchester United can secure a top-four finish in the Premier League

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Nani believe Portugal needs to succeed in the 2026 World Cup?

Nani believes Portugal needs to "fix" the team environment and ensure that all players are united and share the same goals to succeed in the World Cup.

What are Nani's thoughts on Manchester United's chances this season?

Nani is optimistic about Manchester United's

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