Pepe, whose full name is Képler Laveran Lima Ferreira, has decided to retire from football at the age of 41.
Known for his formidable presence on the pitch, Pepe has enjoyed a career spanning over two decades.
He played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s success, contributing to their three Champions League titles and numerous domestic trophies.
🚨🇵🇹 OFFICIAL: Pepe announces his retirement at 41 years old.
878 games, 34 trophies and one of the best defenders around for years…
Legend. 🍷✨ pic.twitter.com/YDrl6BBa6g
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 8, 2024
During his career, Pepe earned 133 caps for Portugal, scoring 7 goals.
He was a key player in Portugal’s UEFA Euro 2016 victory and their 2019 UEFA Nations League triumph.
His aggressive style and tactical intelligence made him a standout defender in both club and international football.
Pepe joined Real Madrid in 2007 from FC Porto for €30 million.
Over ten seasons, he made 334 appearances for the club. His partnership with Sergio Ramos in central defence was pivotal to Real Madrid’s dominance in Europe.
Pepe’s departure from Real Madrid in 2017 marked the end of an era for the club’s defence.
After leaving Real Madrid, Pepe returned to Porto, where he continued to demonstrate his defensive prowess.
There will never be another player like Pepe, what an honour it was to have a player like him play for Real Madrid. This guy went to war for Real Madrid every single game. Legend man. pic.twitter.com/59DkkwD4sN
— WolfRMFC (@WolfRMFC) August 8, 2024
As reported by Reuters, Porto’s president praised Pepe’s influence and leadership on and off the pitch. “His dedication and passion for the game are unparalleled,” said the president.
Pepe’s retirement has sparked numerous tributes from former teammates and coaches. Cristiano Ronaldo, his long-time teammate, described Pepe as “one of the toughest defenders I’ve ever faced.”
Pepe’s decision to retire now raises questions about his future involvement in football, possibly in a coaching or mentoring role.
His legacy, however, is firmly established, and he will be remembered as one of the greatest defenders of his generation.
