Legendary goalkeeper Pepe Reina announces retirement
Veteran goalkeeper Pepe Reina, a World Cup and two-time European Championship winner with Spain, has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 42. After a remarkable 26-season career that saw him play for 10 clubs across Europe's top leagues, Reina confirmed his decision this Monday, stating that "the time has come" to conclude his "very beautiful" journey.
Pepe Reina, a beloved figure in Spanish football and a cornerstone of "La Roja's" golden era, officially hung up his gloves this Monday. The 42-year-old, who made 36 appearances for the Spanish national team, played a crucial role in their historic triumphs, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup and consecutive UEFA European Championships in 2008 and 2012.
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In an interview, Reina reflected on his decision, saying, "A very beautiful career ends, a very complete life. I feel very fortunate for what I have experienced, it has been many years... I didn't expect it, but I think the time has come and I feel like closing it here."
Known as a true "globetrotter" in club football, Reina's career spanned 10 different teams across Europe's most prestigious leagues: LaLiga, the Bundesliga, the Premier League, and Serie A. He began his professional journey with Barcelona in December 2000, under coach Serra Ferrer.
His extensive club list includes notable stints at Villarreal, where he first established himself, and an impactful eight seasons at Liverpool, where he became a fan favorite. Reina also represented giants like Bayern Munich and AC Milan, alongside spells at Napoli, Aston Villa, Lazio, and a return to Villarreal, before concluding his storied career with Como in Italy. His retirement marks the end of an era for one of football's most enduring and decorated goalkeepers.
