Pepe confirms retirement from professional football at 41

Pepe confirms retirement from professional football at 41

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Portugal legend and former Real Madrid star, Kepler Ferreira, professionally known as Pepe, has announced his retirement from professional football at the age 41.

The legendary defender confirmed his boots hanging in an emotional video posted on his official Instagram handle on Thursday.

The video reflects on his storied career that passed over two decades.

Pepe, known for his time with clubs like Real Madrid and Porto, leaves behind a legacy of 34 trophies with 878 games and was known as one of the best defenders around for years.

Pepe played his final game at Euro 2024, in which Portugal lost to France in the quarterfinals after a penalty shootout. He became the oldest player to compete in a European Championship finals tournament.

Dailyeconomy on July 15, reported that Argentina forward Angel Di María announced his retirement from the Argentina national team after a 16-year career.