“That’s why he’s still playing at this level” - Ex-Portugal defender Jose Fonte explains what ‘helps’ Pepe to still play for national team
Former Portugal defender Jose Fonte has hailed his former defensive partner Pepe for his longevity and conditioning. The pair played together for their country and helped the Iberian nation to its first-ever trophy at Euro 2016.
On the Legends Lounge YouTube channel, Fonte hailed his former defensive partner, saying:
“Pepe on the pitch is completely different to how he is off the pitch. On the pitch he’s a competitive animal. He doesn’t care, he just wants to be better. Off the pitch, he’s the nicest guy. You can have a nice conversation with him. He loves his family.
“Pepe is a case for study, it’s unbelievable [how he’s still playing for Portugal]. He still has pace, very agile even at 41. What helps him a lot is that he was very fast throughout his career. So even if he loses a little bit of pace, he’s still fast enough to deal with the strikers. That’s why he’s still playing at this level, let’s be honest."
The former Portugal defender added:
“When you lose the pace, even though you have experience to get the positioning right and avoid certain situations with communication, it always plays a little bit on your mind [that you don’t have the pace anymore].
“He still has that and then it’s all about what the greatest professionals do. Good nutrition, the best advice on physiotherapy, preparation before and after games. He has all this information and that’s why I believe his career is going so well.”
Pepe is currently out of contract following the end of his deal with FC Porto. However, following his performances for Portugal at Euro 2024, it is not hard to imagine him bagging a new deal soon.
Pepe reveals secret of continued participation for Portugal
Legendary Portugal defender, Pepe has shared the secret of his longevity in the game. The 41-year-old defender has continued to play at the highest level despite his age, playing in the UEFA Champions League last season.
About the secret of his longevity when asked, the former Real Madrid defender said via Fotmob:
"I'm just happy to be part of this group, it's a privilege. The secret [is] the passion I have for football. I've said several times that it's a privilege to be able to get up and do what I love most with a lot of concentration and competitiveness, which is what I have."
"The love I put into every action, so much in training as in the game. That's it."
The legendary defense concluded:
"I haven't thought about it yet,My focus is on the next training session, on the next game, which is important to me and to Portugal."
"I don't think about it much, honestly. The future belongs to God, I have many things to worry about today, such as how I will defend my team-mates in the training sessions ahead, how to recover for tomorrow's training. Those are my concerns."
Pepe was a part of the Selecao team that made it to the quarterfinal of Euro 2024 where he looked impressive as always for his country, playing four games.