Thank you, captain!

Luisão put an end to his player career at the age of 37 years, 15 of which of glory and records representing Benfica. The skipper said goodbye farewell to the football pitches at Estádio da Luz.

“Thank you, Benfica, from the bottom of my heart.” It was with these words and in an emotional manner that Luisão put an end to his career, in a farewell ceremony held this Tuesday, at Estádio da Luz. Stories, tear and thanks in the farewell of the players who won the most trophies representing Sport Lisboa e Benfica.

President Luís Filipe Vieira was the first to take the stage set up on the lawn of the Cathedral and, in an emotional speech, to recall "the skinny lad" who he saw arrive at Luz in August 2003.

“Today is a very special day. I remember, with great nostalgia, the day when, in the old Estádio da Luz, I met a slim boy, but with a huge soul and commitment. Now, I look at a happy professional, fulfilled, who said goodbye to the football pitches where he has always defended Sport Lisboa e Benfica”, remembered the red leader, in front of family, players and staff who attended the ceremony.

Text: Filipa Fernandes Garcia

Pics: Isabel Cutileiro, Cátia Luís and Francisca Caria