[Official] Farewell, Legend: Reina Hangs Up Gloves After Remarkable Football Career

Veteran Spanish goalkeeper Pepe Reina has officially announced his retirement from professional football, bringing an illustrious career spanning more than two decades to a close. The 42-year-old will play his final match with Como this Friday against Inter, marking the end of a journey that saw him represent some of Europe’s top clubs and earn international acclaim.

Reina, a product of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, made his senior debut in 2000 and went on to enjoy memorable stints with Villarreal, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, Napoli, Milan, Aston Villa, Lazio, and finally Como 1907. A major highlight of his club career was his nine-year spell at Liverpool (2005–2014), where he made 285 appearances and lifted the 2006 FA Cup and 2012 League Cup.

On the international stage, Reina was part of Spain’s golden generation, contributing to the team’s success in winning two UEFA European Championships (2008, 2012) and the 2010 FIFA World Cup, earning 36 caps for La Roja between 2005 and 2017.

In his heartfelt farewell shared via Instagram, Reina expressed deep gratitude for his football journey:

"It lasted much longer than I ever dreamed, and yet feels so short when I wish I could live it all again," Reina wrote. "Just three days before my final match, so many memories, people, and emotions rush through my mind. I can only sum it all up with a big THANK YOU."

His farewell message received an outpouring of love from fans and former teammates alike, including warm tributes from Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, Luis Alberto, Lucas Leiva, and Lazio captain Mattia Zaccagni. Lazio’s official account also joined the chorus of well-wishers with a heartfelt message: “All the best in your retirement, Pepote.”

Following his retirement, Reina is expected to transition into a coaching role, continuing his passion for football from the sidelines. His leadership, charisma, and wealth of experience will undoubtedly make him a valuable presence in the next chapter of his football journey.