Portugal’s defender Pepe has officially retired from football at the age of 41, making the announcement on Thursday. His final appearance was at Euro 2024, where Portugal faced a heartbreaking exit against France in the quarter-finals via penalties. Notably, Pepe had set a record as the oldest player to compete in a European Championship finals.
Pepe’s illustrious career saw him make 141 appearances for Portugal, with the pinnacle being the 2016 European Championship victory. His time at Real Madrid spanned a decade, during which he secured three La Liga titles, three Champions League trophies, and two FIFA Club World Cups. After starting with FC Porto and moving to Real Madrid in 2007, he returned to Porto in 2019, capping off his career by adding four Primeira Liga titles over two periods with the club.
He stands as one of Portugal’s most-capped players, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Moutinho. Throughout his club career, Pepe amassed 521 appearances across stints with Maritimo, FC Porto, Real Madrid, Besiktas, and finally back with Porto.
In an emotional scene after Portugal’s exit from Euro 2024, Pepe was comforted by his close friend Cristiano Ronaldo, a moment that resonated deeply with fans. During his years at Real Madrid, Pepe formed a legendary defensive duo with Sergio Ramos, especially during a time when Barcelona, with stars like Xavi, Lionel Messi, and Andres Iniesta, dominated the football world.
In a heartfelt video, Pepe reflected on his career, thanking God, club presidents, staff, and everyone who supported him throughout his journey. He expressed deep appreciation to those who believed in him and contributed to his success.
Cristiano Ronaldo, responding to Pepe’s retirement on social media, praised their enduring friendship and mutual respect, emphasizing that their bond and shared accomplishments were more valuable than any trophies won on the field.