Coach Sergio Conceicao, who worked with Pepe for five years at Porto, called the now former Portugal international a “super athlete” and a “competitive machine”, in a message posted on social media today.
“So many victories, so many achievements. Day after day, he has become an example at Olival. Showing what it means to be Porto, to be professional, to be elite. But what stands out above all is living alongside one of the best I have ever coached, a super athlete and a competitive machine. Thank you for everything, Captain”, wrote Sérgio Conceição’s official Instagram page.
With a photo showing the coach and Pepe embracing, Conceicao was keen to remember the achievements they achieved together at Porto.
“One of the best chapters ever in football has come to an end. A great professional, a great man, a player like few others in this sport, which we love so much. In five years, together we have contributed nine trophies to the FC Porto museum,” said Conceicao.
Pepe announced on Thursday, at the age of 41, the end of his football career, after more than two decades at the highest level, in a video clip he posted on social media.
The Portugal international has hung up his boots with nearly 30 titles won throughout his career, including the European Championship with the national team in 2016 and three Champions League titles, all with Real Madrid.
The defender bid farewell to the Portuguese national team with 141 matches and eight goals, and as the third most capped player of all time for the “Quinas”, behind Cristiano Ronaldo (212) and Joao Moutinho (146).
