Pepe Reina Announces Retirement from Professional Football
Spanish goalkeeper Pepe Reina, a World Cup winner and double European champion with the Spanish national team, has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 42, after 26 seasons as a professional. According to an interview with Movistar+, Reina stated that "it’s time to end it" and that he’s ready to "close it here".
In an emotional interview, Reina reflected on his illustrious career, saying: "A very beautiful career comes to an end, a very complete life, I feel very lucky for what I’ve lived, it’s been many years… I didn’t expect it, but I think it’s time and I want to close it here," as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
Reina, who was raised at La Masia and is the son of former goalkeeper Miguel Reina, has had an impressive international career with the Spanish national team, earning 36 caps. He was part of the core group of players that defined the best era in the history of La Roja.
Throughout his club career, Reina has played for 10 teams since making his debut with Barcelona in December 2000 under the guidance of Serra Ferrer. As noted by Mundo Deportivo, Reina has played in LaLiga, the Bundesliga, the Premier League, and the Serie A, representing Villarreal, Liverpool (for eight seasons), Bayern Munich, Napoli, Milan, Aston Villa, Lazio, and Como, his most recent team.
Reina’s decision to retire from professional football marks the end of an era for the Spanish goalkeeper, who has been a stalwart in the sport for over two decades. As Mundo Deportivo reports, Reina’s career has been a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport.
The 42-year-old goalkeeper has had a storied career, playing for some of the biggest clubs in Europe and winning numerous titles, including the World Cup and European Championship with Spain. As quoted by Mundo Deportivo, Reina said: "I’ve lived a very complete life, I feel very lucky for what I’ve lived, it’s been many years… I didn’t expect it, but I think it’s time and I want to close it here."
Reina’s retirement from professional football will undoubtedly be felt by his fans and the football community at large. As reported by Mundo Deportivo, the Spanish goalkeeper has left an indelible mark on the sport, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of footballers.
In conclusion, Pepe Reina’s announcement of his retirement from professional football marks the end of an illustrious career that has spanned over two decades. As Mundo Deportivo notes, Reina’s dedication, passion, and achievements in the sport will be remembered for years to come.
