Legendary Defender Pepe Retires at 41, Closing a Historic Era in Portuguese Football

Portugal’s iconic defender Pepe has announced his retirement from football at 41, ending a remarkable 22-year career that saw him become one of the sport’s most celebrated and decorated players. His final match was Portugal’s Euro 2024 quarter-final defeat to France, where he set a record as the oldest player to compete in a European Championship.

Pepe earned 141 caps for Portugal, making him the third most-capped player in the nation’s history. He was instrumental in Portugal’s triumphs at Euro 2016 and the 2019 UEFA Nations League, cementing his legacy as a cornerstone of the national team.

Beginning his professional journey with Marítimo, Pepe’s career spanned stints at Porto, Real Madrid, and Besiktas. His 10 years at Real Madrid were particularly illustrious, where he won three UEFA Champions League titles, three La Liga championships, and two FIFA Club World Cups. Even in the twilight of his career, Pepe continued to make history, becoming the oldest player to score in a Champions League match when he netted for Porto against Antwerp last year.

While his defensive skill and leadership were widely respected, Pepe was also known for his aggressive style of play, which led to a significant number of red cards throughout his career. Despite his fiery temperament on the field, he was deeply respected by his peers. Cristiano Ronaldo, a longtime teammate for both club and country, paid tribute to Pepe, calling him a “unique” figure and expressing profound gratitude for their friendship and shared success.

In an emotional 33-minute video shared on social media, Pepe thanked his family, teammates, coaches, and fans for their unwavering support throughout his career. He expressed his satisfaction at retiring with “a mind at ease,” having given his all to the sport he loves.

Portuguese Football Federation President Fernando Gomes hailed Pepe as “one of the greatest players of all time,” praising his extraordinary professionalism, dedication, and passion for football. Pepe’s retirement marks the end of a golden era in Portuguese football, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and a lasting impact on the game.