After an incredible journey spanning more than two decades, Pepe Reina played the last game of his professional career on Friday night.
At 42 years old, the veteran goalkeeper’s final moments on the pitch were far from what he or his fans might have hoped for, but his legacy remains unquestionable.
A Tough End to a Glorious Career
Reina, who announced earlier this week that he would retire, faced a harsh moment when he was shown a red card just before halftime.
Playing for Como against title-chasing Inter Milan, Reina found himself in trouble after a VAR review.
In a crucial moment, he came rushing out of his goal area to challenge Inter’s Mehdi Taremi but ended up clipping the striker’s heel.
The referee sent him off, leaving Reina and his team a man down for the second half.
Mixed Emotions on the Pitch
Despite the disappointing ending, the stadium’s atmosphere was filled with respect and admiration.
Reina, who was captaining Como that night, showed his frustration as he protested the decision.
It felt like a tough call, especially since Taremi was moving away from goal and had defenders nearby.
Still, as Reina left the pitch, fans from both teams gave him a standing ovation, acknowledging his remarkable career.
Celebrated by Teammates and Fans Alike
His Como teammates lifted him into the air, celebrating their captain’s career with a heartfelt send-off.
The applause and cheers showed just how much Reina means to the football world, even if his final game didn’t go as planned.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan went on to win the match 2-0, but the victory wasn’t enough to stop Napoli from clinching the Serie A title that night.
From Barcelona Academy to Liverpool Legend
Pepe Reina’s journey began at Barcelona’s famed academy, where he made his debut back in 2000.
After a few years with Villarreal, his big break came with Liverpool in 2005.
Over eight seasons at Anfield, Reina became a beloved figure, playing 394 games and helping the Reds secure major trophies.
Memorable Moments in Goalkeeping History
Reina is particularly remembered for his incredible penalty heroics.
In the 2006 FA Cup final, he saved three penalties in a nail-biting shootout against West Ham, securing Liverpool’s victory.
He also played a key role in the 2012 League Cup final win against Cardiff City, once again shining in the pressure cooker of penalty shootouts.
International Glory with Spain
On the international stage, Reina earned 36 caps for Spain.
He was part of the golden era squads that won two European Championships in 2008 and 2012, and the historic 2010 World Cup-winning team, cementing his place in football history.
A Career Across Europe’s Top Clubs
After his time at Liverpool, Reina went on to play for some of Europe’s biggest clubs, including Napoli, AC Milan, Lazio, Bayern Munich, and Aston Villa.
His experience and leadership made him a valued player wherever he went.
Moving Into Coaching After Retirement
Looking ahead, Reina is not stepping away from football.
Instead, he’s set to begin a coaching career, returning to Spain to manage Villarreal’s Under-19 team next season.
When he announced his retirement, Reina reflected warmly on his journey, saying, “A very beautiful career is coming to an end, a very full life. I feel very fortunate for what I’ve experienced.
It’s been many years… I didn’t expect it, but I think the time has come and I feel like bringing it to a close here.”