Cristiano Ronaldo has posted an emotional message to Pepe after the defender’s decision to retire from football.
In a video posted online on Thursday, Pepe said: “I want to thank God for giving me the wisdom to be able to continue my journey. I can't help but thank all the presidents who bet on me and believed in me.
“All the employees of all the clubs I've been to, they are the soul and essence. And of the national team. All my teammates and coaches, who helped me grow and compete every day. All the fans, who are the soul of football.
“To Jorge Mendes, to GestiFute, to my mother, who was essential in my journey by letting me fly towards my dream, which was to be a professional footballer. To all my friends and family, especially my wife, who was my home in my absence."
He continued: "My children for believing in me, for being a fundamental support in my life, for supporting me when I left home to play. They were the support I needed to be able to go with a clear conscience.
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"I would like to thank everyone, give them a big thank you and a big hug of gratitude. Thank you all very much."
Reacting to Pepe’s news, Ronaldo took to his own social media to pay tribute.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner wrote: “No words to express how much you mean to me my friend.
“We won everything there was to win on the field, but the biggest achievement is the friendship and respect I have for you. You are unique my brother. Thank you for so much.”
In his career, Pepe played for the likes of Maritimo, Porto, Real Madrid and Besiktas.
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During his time with Los Blancos, the central defender won three La Liga titles and three Champions League trophies among other accolades.
On the international stage, Pepe made a total of 141 appearances for Portugal, scoring eight goals. He was part of the squad that won Euro 2016 in France.
Topics: Cristiano Ronaldo, Pepe, Football, Portugal
Marcus Chan