Real Madrid defender Pepe is “zen” when he is away from the pitch, according to his club-mate Danilo.
The Portugal international turned in a series of superb displays at Euro 2016 as Fernando Santos’ men triumphed in France, defeating the host nation 1-0 in the final.
Pepe has gained a reputation for hot-headedness during his time at Real, being involved in a number of on-pitch spats, while he has also been criticised for his alleged play-acting.
However, Danilo insists that the 33-year-old is a quiet person away from the field, and has lavished praised on the centre-back.
"When I see the challenges from Pepe during a game I say to myself -- 'Pepe is crazy, the guy is sick,'" Danilo told Globo Esporte. "Because day-to-day he's a 'zen' guy. He speaks quietly, is very calm and is a good guy. Then training comes and he gets stuck in. If anyone argues he is the one who breaks it up.
"When I see him raging in the games I think -- it can't be the same person. When he plays he is completely different, and it is great for us. But in the day-to-day he is an exceptional guy, always with his little girls around the club.
“And he helped me when I came from Porto. He was by my side in the most difficult moments, as he had lived through something similar. He is a sensational guy."
Danilo made 31 appearances in all competitions for Real in 2015-16, following his transfer from FC Porto.
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- Goal