"We will always remain together" - Portugal send heartwarming message on social media as Pepe retires from professional football

The official Twitter (now X) account of the Portuguese national football team has posted a heartwarming message after legendary centre-back Pepe announced his retirement from professional football. The 41-year-old announced his decision to hang up his boots after an illustrious 23-year career on Thursday, August 8.

Following his announcement, the Selecao took to X and made a post honoring the Real Madrid legend and thanking him for his contributions. The caption read (translated to English):

"We will always remain together: thank you for everything, Pepe!"

The Portuguese legend started his senior career with Marítimo's B team in 2001 and then joined the first team a season later. In 2004, the former defender signed for Porto and remained there until 2007.

Pepe arrived at the Santiago Bernabéu in 2007, and during his 10-year tenure there, the center-back recorded 15 goals and 20 assists in 334 appearances. He won three La Liga titles, two Copa del Rey, two Supercopa de España, three UEFA Champions League titles, two FIFA Club World Cups, and two UEFA Super Cups.

After his time at Los Blancos, the former Portuguese icon joined Turkish club Beşiktaş for the 2017-18 season. He returned to Porto in January 2019 and remained there until 2024.

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Pepe's journey with the Portugal national team

Pepe, who made his senior debut for Portugal in November 2007, has recorded eight goals and four assists in 141 appearances across competitions for the Selecao. He won the 2016 UEFA European Championship and the 2018–19 UEFA Nations League with Portugal.

Following Portugal's heartbreaking loss against France, which led to the Selecao's elimination from the 2024 Euro, Pepe was asked about his retirement, to which he responded (via O Jogo):

"Future? I have already made my decision and will reveal it soon."

When asked if the Euro 2024 quarter-final was his last game for his nation, Pepe said (via O Jogo):

"The important thing now is not that. The most important thing is to congratulate my teammates for the delivery to the game. We have fulfilled the plan, but football is this cruel."

The legendary defender was also named the Man of the Match in the UEFA Euro 2016 Final against France while also making it to the UEFA European Championship Team of the Tournament thrice in 2008, 2012, and 2016.