Football bids farewell to one of its most tenacious and decorated defenders as Pepe, the iconic Portuguese center-back, announced his retirement from professional football. At 41, Pepe ends a career that spanned nearly two decades, marked by numerous titles, personal accolades, and a reputation as one of the most formidable defenders of his generation.
Pepe’s final appearance on the pitch was at the European Championship this summer, where he set the record as the oldest player to compete in the tournament’s history. His last match was a heart-wrenching penalty shootout defeat to France in the quarter-finals, which ultimately closed the chapter on an illustrious international career. Over 141 appearances for Portugal, Pepe solidified his place as a national icon, with only Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Moutinho earning more caps for the national team.
His retirement announcement came via a heartfelt 33-minute video posted online, where an emotional Pepe reflected on his journey. He expressed deep gratitude to those who believed in him and supported his career, from club presidents to the unsung heroes working behind the scenes at the clubs and national teams he represented. “I can’t help but thank all the presidents who bet and believed in me to be able to perform my work,” Pepe said. “To all the employees of all the clubs I’ve been to, who are the soul and essence of the clubs and the national team. And I want to thank everyone in the background. I want to leave a thank-you and a hug of gratitude for all of you.”
Pepe’s club career is equally storied. He began his professional journey with Marítimo before earning a move to Porto, where he first gained prominence on the European stage. However, it was his decade-long stint at Real Madrid that truly cemented his legacy. Making 334 appearances for Los Blancos, Pepe was an integral part of a squad that dominated European football, winning three UEFA Champions League titles and three La Liga championships during his time at the Santiago Bernabéu. His defensive prowess, coupled with an undeniable physical presence, made him a key figure in one of the most successful periods in Real Madrid’s history.
Beyond his contributions to club and country, Pepe also etched his name in the record books. In 2023, he became the oldest goalscorer in Champions League history when he found the net for Porto against Antwerp in the group stages. This achievement highlighted his enduring quality and determination, even in the twilight of his career.
However, Pepe’s career wasn’t without its controversies. Known for his aggressive style of play, his disciplinary record was often a talking point, with the defender receiving a significant number of red cards throughout his career. Yet, this tenacity was also what made him a beloved figure among fans and a feared opponent on the pitch.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Pepe’s long-time teammate for both Real Madrid and Portugal, shared a touching tribute to his friend on social media. “There are no words to express what Pepe means to me,” Ronaldo wrote. “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. Thank you for so much.”
Pepe’s retirement marks the end of an era. As he steps away from the game, he leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to the teams he represented. His career will be remembered not only for the trophies he won but also for the indomitable spirit that made him one of football’s most respected defenders.
