Pizzi: "I take with me much more than titles"

Pizzi's official career farewell ceremony took place this Monday at Cidade do Futebol in Oeiras, home of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF).

Hailing from Bragança, the 36-year-old midfielder, who hung up his boots at the end of the season, earned 17 senior international caps and won the Nations League in 2019, charting a course "from the grassroots to the pinnacle of football."

The former midfielder took the floor, stating: "It's easier on the pitch... I thank the Federation for this tribute; it's a tremendous honor. When I started, I just wanted to play, compete, and enjoy football. Over the years, I realized that football is much more than what happens between the four lines. It instilled important values in me. Football plays a significant role in the development of young people. My journey was built through many stages. Each experience contributed to my growth. No journey is made alone, so I thank my family – your support was fundamental. I also thank the coaches, teammates, directors, staff, and fans who were part of my career."

Regarding the honor of representing the 'Quinas' team, the former Benfica player highlighted the Nations League triumph: "Representing Portugal was one of the most significant moments, and winning the Nations League will forever remain one of the most special. I take with me much more than titles: I take the satisfaction of having pursued a profession I always wanted to."

Pizzi took the opportunity to offer words of support to the National Team, who are preparing for the 2026 World Cup: "I extend a word of support to the 27 players who will represent Portugal in the World Cup, as well as the technical staff and support team. They will represent our country in the best possible way."

Pedro Proença, president of the FPF, spoke before Pizzi, emphasizing the legacy of the player who ended his career at Estoril.

"From Bragança to the World. We bid farewell to one of the most remarkable players of recent years. As FPF president, welcoming Pizzi's family and friends is not a farewell, but a celebration. A celebration of a great career, of a player who proved there are no limits in football. Proof that talent is everywhere. A champion at every level in Bragança, he forced the country to take notice. He represented 13 clubs, played over 700 games, and was one of the most prolific goal-scoring midfielders, with over 140 goals. A unique milestone in his trophy cabinet is the 2019 Nations League. Our Pizzi's career was much more than this: idolized by those who supported him, respected by opponents," he stressed.

The head of the organization also revealed that Pizzi is taking his first steps towards a coaching career: "I saw that he attended the UEFA B+A course, exclusive to former internationals who wish to continue in football as coaches. It was a pleasure to see Pizzi in the first class. It will be an even greater pleasure to see him on the field as a coach. Life is made of cycles and new beginnings."

"Thank you very much for what you did for the Portuguese people and for the example you set for hundreds of young people who today dream of being the new Pizzi. I wish you the best for the future. The doors of the FPF will always be open. Today, our country salutes you," Proença concluded.

At the event at Cidade do Futebol, notable figures such as Rui Patrício, André Almeida, David Simão, Luís Filipe Vieira, João Vieira Pinto, Adrien Silva, Alan, Joaquim Evangelista, Toni, Domingos Paciência, and Ricardo Pereira were present, alongside Pizzi's family and friends.