Pepe Reina, the legendary Spanish goalkeeper, has officially announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 42, marking the end of an extraordinary career that captivated fans worldwide. Playing for Serie A side Como in their debut top-flight season, Reina will hang up his gloves after their final match against Inter Milan, closing a chapter filled with triumphs and tenacity. His decision, revealed in late May 2025, reflects a man at peace with his achievements after over 25 years at the elite level.
Roots and Rise at Barcelona and Beyond
Born in Madrid in 1982 to former Barcelona keeper Miguel Reina, Pepe honed his craft in La Masia, Barcelona’s famed youth system. Debuting for the senior side in 2000, he quickly showed promise but sought regular minutes elsewhere. A loan to Villarreal proved pivotal: from 2002-2005, he made 191 appearances.
This form caught Liverpool’s eye, leading to his £6 million transfer in 2005 under Rafa Benítez. Reina became the Anfield mainstay, embodying the club’s high-pressing style with his distribution skills and commanding presence.
Glory Days at Liverpool: Stats and Saves
Reina’s Liverpool tenure (2005-2014) saw him play 394 matches, keeping 134 Premier League clean sheets—three Golden Glove awards cementing his status as one of the division’s best. Iconic moments defined him: the 2006 FA Cup final shootout win over West Ham.
Beyond stats, Reina’s charisma shone—his pre-match dances, vocal leadership, and loyalty endeared him to fans. Even amid the 2010 beach ball incident against Manchester United, his humor prevailed. He also claimed the League Cup in 2012, Liverpool’s last before recent successes.
European Wanderings and International Accolades
Reina’s passport stamped success across continents. After Liverpool, Napoli (2013-2015, 111 Serie A games) brought a Coppa Italia. Bayern Munich (2017-2020) offered Bundesliga exposure, though as a backup. Spells at AC Milan, Lazio, Sampdoria, and Villarreal return added over 900 club appearances total.
For Spain, he backed Iker Casillas to World Cup 2010 glory (backup role) and Euro 2008/2012 triumphs. Playing in all four major leagues—Spain, England, Italy, Germany—Reina joins an elite club of globetrotting keepers.
Como’s Promotion Hero Turns Page
Joining Como in 2024 until June 2025, Reina linked with manager Cesc Fàbregas, aiding their Serie B promotion push. In Serie A 2024/25, he featured in 12 league games (1,080 minutes), conceding 14 goals with two shutouts, plus Coppa Italia outings. A January signing reduced his role, prompting reflection.
Enduring Legacy of Resilience and Joy
Reina’s longevity—competing into his 40s—mirrors goalkeeping greats like Gianluigi Buffon. His 50th Liverpool clean sheet came faster than any keeper; his personality, from viral dances to clutch saves, made him unforgettable.
As Como fights relegation, Reina exits with dignity, eyeing punditry or youth coaching. Football loses a Serie A survivor whose career bridged eras, but his influence endures.