Portugal: Legendary Defender Pepe Announces Retirement
PORTUGAL
<span class="article-singlebylineauthor”>KONSTANTINOS BOURLPOULAS
08.08.2024 | 18:51
Pepe.
@2024 LUIS VIEIRA/AP IMAGES
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Pepe has decided to hang up his football boots, concluding a legendary career at the age of 41.
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Pepe announced his retirement from professional football, bringing to a close a remarkable journey that spanned two decades.
The Portuguese center-back began his career in 2002 with Maritimo before moving to Porto in 2004. He went on to represent Real Madrid, Besiktas, and returned to Porto, where he played his final match.
Pepe’s illustrious career saw him become the oldest player ever to participate in the European Championship in 2024. Throughout his remarkable journey, he won 34 trophies, scored 42 goals, and provided 36 assists at the club level. He also earned 141 caps for the Portuguese national team.
Pepe’s greatest achievements include three Champions League titles with Real Madrid and the Euro 2016 championship.