On Thursday, the 41-year-old Portugal defender stated that he has departed from the sport of football.

Portugal fell to France on penalties in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024, and Pepe became the oldest player to participate in a European Championship finals tournament. This was his final game.

Pepe expressed his gratitude to God for providing him with the wisdom to continue his voyage in a video posted on social media that reflected on his career.

“I am compelled to express my gratitude to all the presidents who took a chance on me and believed in my ability to complete my duties.” To all the personnel of the clubs I have visited, who are the heart and soul of the national team and the clubs.

“I also wish to extend my gratitude to all those who were present in the background.” Upon your departure, I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation and embrace each of you. And I am extremely grateful to each and every one of you.

In 2016, Pepe won the Euros and made 141 appearances for his nation. He spent 10 seasons at Real Madrid, where he won three LaLiga titles, three Champions League trophies, and two Club World Cups.

In 2007 from Porto, Pepe joined the Spanish team. He returned to the Portuguese club in 2019, where he remained until the conclusion of his career. During his two stints at the club, he won four Primeira Liga titles.