Marca talks about Coentran: Transformational fishery entrepreneur & There are 4 fishing boats, born to be children of the sea

On May 23, "Marca" published an article introducing the current life of Real Madrid former player Coentrand.

In the football world, some stories are remembered for goals, championships or moments of glory, while others—such as Coentrand’s—are memorable because of their subsequent trajectory. The Portuguese left-back, who once wore Real Madrid's jersey and fought alongside legends such as Cristiano Ronaldo, now lives a completely different life from the flash and the hustle and bustle stadium. For many years, he devoted himself to the cause of what he called himself a "true duty": the sea and fishing.

Cointran was born in the fishing port town of Vera Ducondi in northern Portugal. He grew up between fishing nets and football since childhood. His talent allowed him to enter professional football early, and he made his debut in his hometown team Rio Avi at the age of 17, which quickly attracted the attention of domestic giants. After joining Benfica in 2007, he gradually grew into one of the most promising full-backs in Europe.

With explosive power, strong physique and offensive instinct, Coentrand gained a foothold in the Portuguese national team. After his amazing performance in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, he transferred to Real Madrid in 2011 for 30 million euros, starting his highest five years of career. Despite being troubled by injuries and fiercely competing with Marcelo, he still won two Champions Leagues, two La Liga, one Cup of Dec, two European Super Cups and three Club World Cups with the team, becoming a trusted defensive champion under Mourinho.

After experiencing loans from Monaco and Portugal Sports in 2018, Cointran returned to Leo Avi. In 2021, the 33-year-old announced that he would hang up his boots, but he did not follow the rules to choose the coaching, commentary or brokerage industry. The Portuguese threw himself into the arms of the sea.

Today, Coentran transformed into a fishing entrepreneur, owned four fishing boats, operated traditional fishing companies and hired 45 employees. He still often goes out to sea in person and devotes himself to fishing with his focus on the court.

He emphasized in an exclusive interview with Portugal TV: "People who love the ocean should follow their hearts. My father once had a fishing boat, and he often went to sea with him in his childhood. Football will eventually end, and my happiness lies on this boat. Life at sea is by no means a shame, and this job deserves respect."

Now Coentran, who has lost his star aura, has found the real anchor point of life in the depths of the blue.