10 famous players who switched national teams

4) Pepe

Képler Laveran Lima Ferreira, more commonly addressed by his nickname Pepe, is fourth on today’s list. The tough-tackling defender was born in Maceió, Brazil to traditionally Brazilian parents. He played his youth career for Corinthians-AL from 1995 to 2001, but signed his first professional contract for the B-side of Portuguese team Martimo, after moving there when he was 18 years old. He then went on to represent the full Martimo team, before moving to Porto, and ultimately Real Madrid, where he still plies his trade. Though he had never represented Brazil in any age category, it was revealed in 2006 by Pepe’s father that then Brazilian national coach Dunga had contacted Pepe about a possible call-up to the national squad. Pepe, however, rejected the offer out of hand, stating his desire to play for the Portuguese national team as soon as he got his citizenship. After obtaining naturalization in 2007, he got his first call up in August of the same year, in a UEFA Euro 2008 qualifier against Poland. Pepe has made over 50 appearances for the national side since his debut, even scoring on 3 occasions.