"It seems that the stars aligned for it to be an unforgettable moment. My number is 17, the last match was on the 17th [of May], I left at minute 17, after 17 seasons as a professional. It was a happy and joyful party, just like me. It was much better than I had imagined", confessed the now ex-player to the Lusa agency.

André Filipe Monteiro, known in the football world as Ukra, decided to 'hang up his boots' at 36, while playing for Rio Ave, a club in the I League, where he had been for the past three seasons, in a decision that he assumed was "well-considered".

"I think that if I wanted to continue, and maybe I could have, I would have had to lower my standards. But I preferred to give what I still could to Rio Ave and I end with great pride for the career I had and for all the clubs I played for", he shared.

Ukra confessed that he had been preparing for this moment (the farewell) for some time, but that he still hasn't fully absorbed the fact that his football career is over.

"The normal thing would be to go on vacation now. That's why I think I'll only feel that it's over when the pre-season and training starts, seeing everyone return to the stadiums, and me doing something different", he predicted.

The ex-forward confided that the last few days have been lived "with more smiles than tears" and, almost a week after having played the last match of his career, he is still answering the many messages that were sent to him.

"I was aware of the affection and respect that people have for me, both professionally and personally. But the amount of congratulatory messages surprised me. I take this opportunity to leave a word of thanks to Benfica, a club that was not part of my past, but that associated itself with my farewell on the field with a very nice gesture", he said.

In his career as a professional, it was at Rio Ave that Ukra spent the most time, a total of seven seasons, and, therefore, he also left a special mention to the Vila do Conde club.

"My club will always be Rio Ave. It was here that I had my best seasons as a professional, that I managed to become an international player, and that I built my blood family. So, despite all the affection for the other clubs, I say that it was Vila do Conde and Rio Ave that gave me everything", he stressed.

Satisfied for now to spend more time with his family, to whom he attributed the main reason for his "professional balance and personal joy", the ex-player is already planning his next steps.

"I want to continue to be connected to football, close to the fans, because they deserve my affection. If possible, I would also like to be with the younger ones, because I feel that I left an image of dedication, professionalism and companionship. It was important to transmit these values", he said.

In addition, and making use of his creative streak, namely on social media, Ukra is already getting involved in projects in the area of marketing and advertising.

"I work with a creative agency that is taking care of this new future of mine, which makes me comfortable and confident. I like advertising, marketing and communication. Apparently it seems that I have a knack for it", he concluded with a smile.