Pepe, one of the most iconic and aggressive defenders of modern football, has built a reputation for his fierce tackling, leadership, and resilience. Born in Brazil but choosing to represent Portugal internationally, he has won numerous accolades at both club and national levels. Despite being widely recognized for his defensive abilities, there are many lesser-known aspects of his career and personal life. Let’s uncover some of the most intriguing facts about Pepe.
Contents
Key Information About Pepe
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kepler Laveran de Lima Ferreira |
| Date of Birth | February 26, 1983 |
| Nationality | Brazilian-Portuguese |
| Net Worth | Estimated $13 million |
| Wife | Ana Sofia Moreira |
| Children | Two daughters |
| Height | 1.87 m (6 ft 2 in) |
| Weight | 81 kg (178 lbs) |
| Position | Centre-back |
| Dominant Foot | Right |
| Playing Style | Aggressive, physically dominant, aerially strong, tactical awareness |
| Clubs Played For | MarÃtimo, Porto, Real Madrid, BeÅŸiktaÅŸ |
| Major Achievements | 3x UEFA Champions League, Euro 2016, UEFA Nations League 2019 |
| International Caps | 141 for Portugal |
| Trophies Won | Over 20 club and international titles |
| Goals Scored | 50+ career goals (club and international) |
| Match Experience | Over 700 professional matches |
| Heading Ability | Exceptional, both defensively and offensively |
| Scoring Ability | Known for crucial goals in set-piece situations |
| Injuries | Knee ligament injuries, muscular problems |
| Tattoos | No visible tattoos |
| Pressure Handling | Thrives in high-stakes matches |
Pepe’s Journey from Brazil to Portugal
Pepe was born in Maceió, Brazil, and began his football journey with local club Corinthians Alagoano. At 18, he moved to Portugal to join MarÃtimo, where his performances caught the attention of bigger clubs. His transition to FC Porto in 2004 marked the beginning of his rise to prominence.
The Real Madrid Legacy
In 2007, Real Madrid secured Pepe for €30 million. He became a mainstay in their defense, winning multiple La Liga and Champions League titles. His aggressive style often led to disciplinary issues, but his contributions were crucial in Real Madrid’s golden era.
Portugal National Team Heroics
Pepe chose to represent Portugal internationally, debuting in 2007. He played a key role in Portugal’s Euro 2016 triumph and their UEFA Nations League victory in 2019. His leadership and defensive skills made him a cornerstone of the national team.
Lesser-Known Facts About Pepe
- Named After Scientists: His father named him Kepler Laveran in honor of Johannes Kepler and Alphonse Laveran.
- Rejected by Sporting CP: Pepe once trained with Sporting Lisbon but was not signed.
- Unusual Discipline Record: Despite his tough reputation, he has never received a direct red card in the Champions League.
- BeÅŸiktaÅŸ Stint: Spent a brief period in Turkey before returning to Porto.
- No Tattoos: Unlike many modern footballers, Pepe prefers a clean skin look.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Pepe still playing football?
As of 2024, Pepe continues to play for FC Porto and the Portugal national team.
2. Why did Pepe choose Portugal over Brazil?
He gained Portuguese citizenship in 2007 and believed he had better opportunities with Portugal’s national team.
3. How many Champions League titles has Pepe won?
Pepe has won the UEFA Champions League three times with Real Madrid.
4. What is Pepe’s playing style?
He is known for aggressive tackling, aerial dominance, and strong defensive leadership.
5. Has Pepe ever scored goals?
Yes, he has scored over 50 goals in his career, mainly from set-pieces.
Pepe’s career is a testament to hard work, resilience, and determination. From his humble beginnings in Brazil to becoming one of Portugal’s greatest defenders, he has left an indelible mark on football history. His legacy will be remembered not just for his aggressive defending but also for his leadership and success on the grandest stages.
