Portugal are out of Euro 2024 and Pepe may have played his last game for the Seleção. In tears following the quarter-final once morest France – in which he was once once more fabulous – The 41-year-old defender then went for a flash interview and was asked if this match might have been his last in this jersey. : « It’s not important. I’ll have time to talk regarding my future. The most important thing is to congratulate my teammates for their commitment in this match. We followed the plan that had been decided for this match, but that’s football and it’s cruel. »
He was then asked if crying meant anything else, beyond defeat: Yes, but I will have time to talk regarding it. We must first go through this process of pain, of sadness. We were all here with the goal of winning, of wanting to give our best for our country. We did not manage to give this joy to our people, but that is football, unfortunately. It is very cruel. Four days ago, we won on penalties, today, we lost. I must give strength to my teammates, tell them that we are on the right path. »
Later in a press conference, Robert Martinezexpressed his admiration for Pepe. He was an example during this tournament. I think players like Gonçalo Inácio and António Silva will be even better thanks to their experience with him. He was incredible. Not only during the matches, but also during training, in his speeches, in his support, in his commitment… His tears are tears of frustration. It is difficult to accept not to continue following our performance. »
