Portugal star Pepe announces retirement
Portugal defender Pepe has announced his retirement from football, officially bringing his decorated 23-year career to an end.
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Pepe announces retirement
Pepe, 41, became the oldest player to appear at EURO 2024 this summer.
The former Real Madrid played his last game in Portugal’s penalty shootout defeat to France in the quarterfinal.
In an emotional 33-minute YouTube video, he thanked those who have helped him throughout his career.
“I want to thank God for giving me the wisdom to be able to continue my journey. I can’t help but thank all the presidents who bet on me and believed in me,” Pepe said.
“All the employees of all the clubs I’ve been to, they are the soul and essence. And of the national team. All my teammates and coaches, who helped me grow and compete every day. All the fans, who are the soul of football.
Pepe’s legacy
Pepe last played for Porto before joining Portugal in the European Championship.
He made 141 appearances for his country – only behind Cristiano Ronaldo (211) and Joao Moutinho (146) in terms of Portugal caps.
The centre-back first made a name for himself in Porto move to Real Madrid in 2007.
He’d spend ten years at the Santiago Bernabeu, playing 334 games and helping the club win three La Liga titles and three Champions Leagues.
Meanwhile, football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo paid tribute to his long-time Real Madrid and Portugal teammate.
“We won everything there was to win on the pitch, but the biggest triumph is the friendship and the respect I have for you. You’re unique, my brother,” Ronaldo said on X.
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