Recently, central defender Pepe (Portugal) officially announced his retirement at the age of 41 after 23 years of playing professional football.

In a recent announcement, center-back Pepe announced his retirement. The player born in 1983 retired from his football career after 23 years of playing at the top level. During his career, Pepe played 742 matches at club level and 141 matches for the national team. Pepe’s last match for the Portuguese national team was in the quarter-finals of EURO 2024 against France.

On the day of his retirement announcement, Pepe said: “I want to thank God for giving me the clarity to continue this journey. I cannot forget to thank all the presidents who believed in me and had faith in me.

I would like to thank my teammates, coaches, who have helped me grow every day and all the staff of the clubs I have been involved with. I would like to thank Jorge Mendes, Gestifute, and my mother, who has been an important source of motivation in my journey, who has given me the wings to fly towards my dream of becoming a professional player.”

Pepe announced his retirement at the age of 41 after 23 years of playing professional football (Photo: Getty).

“Thank you to all my friends and family, especially my wife, who has been my home away from home. Thank you to my children for always believing in me and being a solid support in my life, for supporting me when I had to play away from home. I want to send my sincere thanks to everyone, along with a hug full of gratitude” – Pepe concluded.

After Pepe announced his retirement from football, Ronaldo also wrote on his personal page to pay tribute to his teammate, CR7 affirmed: “There are no words to describe what you mean to me, my brother. We have conquered everything together on the pitch, but the most precious thing I have is the brotherhood and respect I have for you. You are unique. Thank you for everything.”

Ronaldo is 2 years younger than Pepe, and the two players have fought together for many years in the national team. At club level, the two Portuguese players have achieved great success during their time at Real Madrid.