In a shocking announcement, Pepe has hung up his boots at the age of 41, marking the end of a glittering career that spanned over two decades.
The Portuguese defender’s most recent outing was at Euro 2024, where he played every minute of Portugal’s quarter-final defeat to France, alongside his long-time friend and teammate Cristiano Ronaldo.
Regarded as one of the best defenders of the 21st century, Pepe won an astonishing 34 trophies, including three Champions League titles, and made 878 appearances throughout his career.
His successful partnership with Sergio Ramos at Real Madrid saw him win every available club honor in Spain, earning numerous individual accolades along the way.
Pepe made the surprise announcement in a glamorous video, showcasing his glittering career and thanking those who have supported him throughout his journey.
Legendary defender, Pepe, has announced his retirement from football at the age of 41
Pepe won an incredible 34 trophies during his glittering career with both club and country
Pepe (holding trophy) was influential in ending Portugal’s wait for a first major trophy in 2016
At Real Madrid, Pepe (left) formed a close relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo as they became friends
Rising through the youth ranks in Portugal, Pepe eventually got his break at Porto in 2004, before moving to Real Madrid in 2007, where he spent a decade and won numerous titles.
The legendary defender made 334 appearances for Madrid, scoring 15 goals, registering 20 assists, and earning 79 yellow cards, along with three sending offs.
Pepe’s time at Madrid culminated in him winning two Club World Cups, two UEFA Super Cups, two Spanish Cups, three LaLiga titles, and three Spanish Super Cups, alongside his Champions League honors.
He also formed a close bond with Ronaldo, with the pair playing through the best years of their careers together for both club and country, often celebrating successes and consoling each other in defeats.
During two spells at Porto, Pepe won four Portuguese top-flight titles, five Portuguese Cups, five Super Cups, and an intercontinental trophy, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest defenders of all time.
Pepe is widely-regarded as one of football’s most combative defenders and was sent off six times at Real Madrid
Pepe most recently played a vital role in Portugal’s run to the quarter-finals at Euro 2016
Pep and Ronaldo celebrate winning the Super Cup after beating Barcelona in 2012
Pepe (left) won three LaLiga titles during a career spanning a decade at Real Madrid
Internationally, Pepe helped Portugal win their first major honor, Euro 2016, and later became UEFA Nations League winners, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest defenders of all time.
In a heartfelt video, Pepe thanked those who have supported him throughout his career, including his family, friends, teammates, coaches, and fans, saying: “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. I want to thank all my teammates and coaches, who helped me grow and compete every day.”
“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.”