Pepe Announces Retirement at 41
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Portuguese center-back Pepe (Maceió, Brazil; 1983) has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 41. The veteran defender, who has been without a team since July 1st, uploaded a video to his social media accounts lasting over thirty minutes to explain his decision and reflect on his illustrious career.
“I want to thank God for giving me the wisdom to continue my path,” Pepe says in the video, before acknowledging the support of presidents, club employees, teammates, coaches, his agent, family, and friends. “Without a doubt, they were the support I needed to retire with a clear conscience.”
Reactions to the announcement were swift and heartfelt. Spanish coach Roberto Martínez, the current Portuguese national team coach, praised Pepe’s contributions to the team, particularly highlighting his performance during the Euro Cup. “Thank you for what you did for the National Team… You left a legacy for future generations.”
Pepe’s departure from Porto was tumultuous, following the club’s tumultuous presidential election in April. His renewal was suspended when the new president, Villas-Boas, made changes to the sporting level. The veteran defender considered moving to Vasco da Gama, but ultimately decided against it.
Despite the controversy, Pepe leaves Real Madrid as one of their most decorated players, having spent ten years at the club and winning three Champions League titles. “I remember the first day I was in Spain,” he says in the farewell video. “An adventure that I decided to take on, I took a risk, and I came out ten years later with my head held high.”
Pepe retires after playing 878 matches across his career, lifting 33 titles for Marítimo, Porto, Real Madrid, Besiktas, and the Portuguese national team.
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<h2 class="ext-intl”>Pepe’s Honors
PORTUGAL
- Euro Cup (2016)
- Nations League (2019)
… (remaining list of Pepe’s honors)
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