A Legend Says Farewell: Pepe Reina Hangs Up His Gloves

Pepe Reina, 42, has officially announced his retirement from professional football at the end of the 2024/25 season. His final match at the Stadio Sinigaglia was an emotional occasion: the veteran Spanish goalkeeper received a standing ovation from the entire crowd — players, fans, and even the opposition — as he bid farewell during the match against Inter. With his charisma and vast experience, Reina leaves an indelible mark on the Como 1907 family.

His career has truly been the stuff of legend. A product of Barcelona’s youth academy, Reina made his name internationally with prestigious clubs including Villarreal, Liverpool, Napoli, Bayern Munich, AC Milan, Aston Villa, and Lazio. He also earned 36 caps for Spain, fulfilling his dream of becoming a World Champion in 2010 and winning two European Championships (2008 and 2012).

Joining Como in the summer of 2024, Reina immediately brought his winning mentality and professionalism to the Biancoblù dressing room. In this Serie A season, he made 12 appearances and kept two clean sheets — but beyond the numbers, his impact was felt most profoundly off the pitch. From day one of pre-season, Reina was a leader and a guiding figure for his teammates, particularly the younger players, always ready to share his wealth of experience with those around him.

Carlalberto Ludi, Sporting and General Director of Como 1907, highlighted the personal and professional legacy that Pepe leaves behind at the club:

“In terms of mentality, leadership and experience during this new Serie A season, we owe him a huge thank you. Not just for what he did on the pitch, but above all for what he brought off it — he was a constant support to all of us, myself first and foremost. It was an honour to have him with us. A shame it ended so soon. The best is yet to come. A big hug.”

For those who, like Alberto Moreno, shared the dressing room and battles on the pitch with Reina, the emotion of saying goodbye is just as intense. The Spanish full-back – who also joined Como this season – described his bond with Pepe:

“Pepe is a friend I would take to the ends of the earth. I was fortunate to share three years with him: two at Villarreal and this last one here at Como. Honestly, I have nothing but good things to say about him. He’s someone who, as we say in Spain, is ‘es abrazable’ — a person you always want to be close to.”

Moreno’s words reveal the genuine affection he feels for a teammate who has become like family, admired for his sunny disposition and his ability to bring the group together.

Cesc Fàbregas was able to rely on a valuable ally in Reina. The former national teammate — now Como’s coach — praised Pepe’s impact on the team as follows:

“This season has been truly unforgettable. Without you, everything would have been much more difficult. I am certain you will become a great coach, thanks to your passion, authenticity, and eagerness to learn and grow. And I’m sure that one day we’ll find ourselves on opposing benches.”

The Catalan coach emphasises Reina’s work ethic: a champion who led his teammates by example every day, helping to foster a culture of hard work and respect that will remain part of the club’s legacy.

Among those who have benefited most from the guidance of a champion like Reina is Nico Paz, a talented 20-year-old who arrived from Real Madrid. Having grown enormously during his time at Como, Nico wanted to thank his mentor:

“Pepe taught me that you have to train every day with motivation. At 42, he was always the first to arrive and trained with a smile, eager to help the team. His enthusiasm was infectious — both for me and the entire group. He was vital to our season at Como and helped us enormously.”

Paz’s words are proof of the enormous impact Reina had on the younger players: a true leader in the dressing room, always ready to share his experience, advice, and encouragement with the young talents.

Como 1907 bids farewell to Pepe Reina with deep gratitude. In just twelve months in the BiancoBlu club, Pepe won everyone’s hearts with his humility, natural leadership, and the infectious smile with which he approached each day.

Il Special thanks for all he has contributed; his example will remain a valuable legacy for both current and future players. The club wish Pepe all the very best for the future, and know that the doors of this Lariani family will always be open to him.