Fabio Coentrao has decided to pursue a dream of working at sea after hanging up his boots - and it sounds like he is having a whale of a time.
The former Benfica and Real Madrid full-back, who made over 100 appearances for Los Blancos, took a step back from football at the end of last season following a spell at boyhood club Rio Ave.
With two Champions League trophies and two La Liga honours to his name, as well as over 50 caps for Portugal, Vila do Conde-born Coentrao is now finding great pleasure away from the beautiful game.
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After buying his first boat during his playing days, the 34-year-old is now working full-time at sea as a fisherman.
In a chat with 'Empower Brands's YouTube channel, the former Real Madrid full-back opened up about his new dream job. "Life in the sea is not a shame, as many people think," he said. "It is a job like any other. Not only that, the sea is beautiful and we need it.
"People who love the sea and who want to experience the sea need to follow their dream."
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Coentrao, who also spent time on loan with Sporting CP and Monaco during the latter stages of his career, has previously told the story of how his vessel rescued 15 fishermen from a sinking ship.
He now owns a fleet of fishing boats, according to reports.
"It is also a job for the new generations," Coentrao added. "My father had a boat, he used to fish and always went with him as a child. My life was the sea... the sea and fishing.
"Of course, I knew that football would one day end and that I should take a new direction in my life. And my happiness is this boat and this is the life I want to lead."
It's great to see Coentrao enjoying life beyond football and doing something he truly loves.
Topics: Real Madrid, La Liga, Portugal, Sporting CP
Jack Kenmare