“A true legend of the game”- Fans show respect to Pepe as Portuguese footballing icon hangs up his boots at 41

Portugal and Real Madrid legend Pepe has finally called time on an illustrious career that has spanned more than 23 years.

“A true legend of the game”- Fans show respect to Pepe as Portuguese footballing icon hangs up his boots at 41

Pepe announced his retirement in an emotional video surrounded by his family (Via BBC & X/@CristianoXtra)

Kepler Laveran de Lima Ferreira, better know as Pepe is one of the most reliable defenders to have graced the sport. The former Real Madrid and Portugal defender made the difficult decision to hang up his boots at the age of 41. Fans around the globe shared messages of respect as a true footballing icon called time on his playing days.

Pepe has been an integral part of Real Madrid and Portugal’s defense in the prime of his career. With a senior career, spanning over 23 years, he is by far one of the most experienced players to play for his country. In a recently released video on social media, Pepe announced his retirement from professional football.

https://youtu.be/G8qbVtQfOh4?si=zsDBnR6eoj64kv2u

The video featured the player recalling emotional moments throughout his career as he placed his football cleats, jerseys and other personal belongings inside a box.

FS Video

A slideshow then displayed every single trophy won by the Portuguese in his career, ranging from the Euro cup in 2016 to the three Champions League titles with Real Madrid.

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Fans recall the brilliance of Pepe as player announces retirement

There are a few players in football that can only be considered an asset if they play for the club that one supports. A fan said that no player better fits that description than Portuguese center-back Pepe. Another said that defenders like the 41-year-old are a rare breed and that Real Madrid should consider themselves lucky to have employed him in his prime.

Pepe at Real Madrid
Pepe has won three Champions League titles and several domestic titles in his illustrious career (Via Marca.com)

With fans posting iconic moments throughout his career, a fan added that his commendable display for Portugal at the Euros in Germany was right up there with the rest. With his career statistic of 878 games played and 34 trophies won, a fan was bewildered at how Pepe averaged a title in every 26 games.

Pepe last played for Portuguese side Porto, making 132 appearances and scoring 7 goals in the process. He also broke the record for being the oldest outfield player to feature in a knockout game at the Euros. Portugal went down fighting against France as they were eliminated on penalties in the quarterfinal. A heartbroken Pepe melted hearts as fans bore witness to the legend for one last time.

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