The iconic Portuguese football star and former Real Madrid defender Pepe has announced his retirement from football at the age of 41.
The 41-year-old football legend announced his retirement on his Instagram page Thursday morning, posting a glossy video that showcases his many trophies.
The veteran defender left Porto earlier this summer before leading Portugal at Euro 2024, earning his 141th cap in the quarter-final defeat to France, and has now opted to call time on his career.
In an emotional 33-minute YouTube video, Pepe said: “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. 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.
“To Jorge Mendes, to Gestifute, to my mother, who was essential in my journey by letting me fly towards my dream, which was to be a professional footballer. To all my friends and family, especially my wife, who was my home in my absence. My children for believing in me, for being a fundamental support in my life, for supporting me when I left home to play. They were the support I needed to be able to go with a clear conscience. I would like to thank everyone, give them a big thank you and a big hug of gratitude. Thank you all very much.”
Pepe came through the academy at Maritimo before making his name with Porto and earning himself a big-money move to Real Madrid in 2007. He’d spend ten years at the Santiago Bernabeu, playing 334 games and winning three La Liga titles and three Champions Leagues.
