Seven of Pepe’s best, most ludicrous and most memorable moments

In 10 years at Real Madrid, Pepe won three La Liga titles, three Champions Leagues, two Copas del Rey and several other trophies – not to mention the heart of every supporter.

Pepe often found himself in the headlines over the years – for both good and bad reasons. A brilliant defender on his day, he has always been capable of moments of absolute madness. And you know what, it’s part of his appeal.

He’s been the heart and soul of Porto for the past few seasons and at 38 years old he still doesn’t look like slowing down.

So here are just a few of his most memorable moments from recent years.

Think Pepe is a defender? You’re wrong.

He is whatever he wants to be, whenever he wants to be. On this occasion against Turkey at the 2008 Euros he decided he was a No.10.

And some No.10 too, scoring the opening goal of this game against Turkey with this drive forward that even Cristiano Ronaldo would be proud of.

Pepe, defender or forward? #OTD in 2008: Portugal Turkey @selecaoportugal | @officialpepe | #EURO2020 pic.twitter.com/Umj2PZ9w9d

— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) June 7, 2021

Not a good one, this. Pepe the diver, Pepe the schemer, is a Pepe in control. Not exactly likable, but you have to admire his cunning on some level.

When Pepe conceded a late penalty against Getafe in 2009, he was the exact opposite.

In terms of complete head’s-gone meltdowns, this was pretty spectacular. Pepe had already fouled Javi Casquero, then came two kicks, a knee in the back, two stamps, a couple of slaps to completely different players, and Iker Casillas looking very FFS, mate.

He subsequently banned for 10 matches and considered walking away from the game. He said: “If I feel that I’m not in the right state to return to playing, I will continue