Former Real Madrid defender Fabio Coentrao embarked on a vastly different career path since retiring from professional football. Coentrao made more than 100 appearances for Los Blancos.

The former Portugal international shares a close relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo, but Coentrao’s career has taken a different trajectory from that of the Al Nassr forward.

The 35-year-old actually delved into his passion for fishing during his playing days. It is now reported that he possesses a fleet of fishing boats.

“The roots have been here since I was born. My father always had a boat, he was really into fishing. I used to go a lot with my father. I liked it very much,” Coentrao shared.

Moreover, the former Portugal international has previously recounted a compelling tale of his boat rescuing 15 fishermen from a sinking vessel and believes fishing is a generational vocation.

“Life in the sea is not a shame, as many people think. It is a job like any other. Not only that, the sea is beautiful and we need it. People who love the sea and who want to experience the sea need to follow their dream,” he added.

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Coentrao, once a prominent left-sided player, graced the ranks of Real Madrid from 2011 to 2018, amassing two Champions League trophies and two La Liga honors during his tenure.

The former left-back played for Real Madrid between 2011 and 2018 where he won two Champions League titles and two La Liga honours.

Coentrao also turned out for Benfica, Monaco, and Sporting Lisbon among other clubs during his career. He made 52 appearances for Portugal from 2009-2017.