Angolan professional footballer who played as a striker for several clubs, including Manchester United, and represented the Angola national team in international competitions.
Manucho, born Mateus Alberto Contreiras Gonalves, is a former Angolan professional footballer known for his impressive skills as a striker and his remarkable journey in European football. With a career spanning over a decade, Manucho has made a name for himself in top-tier leagues and international competitions, earning him the nickname "El Ciola" from his fans.
Manucho began his football career at Flaminguinhos, a small youth football club in Terra Nova, Luanda, where he grew up. Under the guidance of his coach and father, Alberto Gonalves, Manucho developed his skills as a left winger, becoming one of the club's top stars.
Upon turning professional, Manucho signed for Benfica de Luanda, a mid-table club in the Angolan league. He then moved to Luanda-based side Petro Atletico, where he initially struggled to break into the team due to the presence of striker Flvio Amado. However, after Flvio joined Egyptian side Al Ahly, Manucho began to establish himself in the side, scoring 16 goals in 2006 and 15 in 2007.
In January 2008, Manucho made a historic move to Manchester United, becoming the first Angolan player to join the Premier League giants. Although he was loaned out to Greek side Panathinaikos for the remainder of the 2007-2008 season due to issues with obtaining a UK work permit, Manucho received a work permit soon after returning to Manchester United for preseason training in July 2008.
Manucho made his debut for Manchester United in the League Cup against Middlesbrough on 23 September 2008. However, short of first-team opportunities at Old Trafford, he joined Hull City on loan until the end of the 2008-2009 season.
Having failed to break into the Manchester United first team, Manucho joined Real Valladolid in July 2009. During his time at Valladolid, he earned the nickname "El Ciola" from the fans, which has stuck with him ever since.
Throughout his career, Manucho has played for several clubs, including Bucaspor, AEL Limassol, and Raja Casablanca, among others. He has also represented the Angolan national team, participating in four Africa Cups of Nations.
Manucho's journey in European football has paved the way for other Angolan players to follow in his footsteps. His impressive skills, determination, and perseverance have earned him a place in the hearts of his fans and a reputation as one of the most successful Angolan footballers of all time.
Manucho's legacy continues to inspire young Angolan footballers, and his impact on the sport will be remembered for years to come.
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