September 25 – Former Manchester United and Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane has announced a shock retirement from football at just 31-years-old.
The Frenchman joined Italian promoted side Como in July on a free transfer, but played just 25 minutes for his new club before picking up a nasty knee injury in his debut against Sampdoria last month.
Varane began his professional journey at Ligue 1 club Lens, where he spent just one season in the first team before his 2011 transfer to Real Madrid.
His decade at the Bernabéu was nothing short of illustrious, collecting an impressive 18 major trophies, including three La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League crowns, solidifying his status as one of the world’s top defenders.
In 2021, Manchester United secured Varane’s services for an initial £34 million. Despite battling injuries, the French centre-back made 95 appearances across all competitions and added a Carabao Cup triumph in 2022 to his resume. His final match for the club saw him lift the FA Cup after a victory against Manchester City at Wembley.
On the international stage, Varane debuted for France in 2013 and went on to amass 93 caps. He was an instrumental figure in their 2018 World Cup-winning campaign and also helped Les Bleus secure the Nations League in 2021, before featuring in their 2022 World Cup final run.
“I hold myself to the highest standard, I want to go out strong, not just holding on to the game,” he wrote on Instagram. “It takes a big dose of courage to listen to your heart and your instinct.”
“I have fallen and risen a thousand times, and this time, it’s the moment to stop and hang my boots up with my final game winning a trophy at Wembley,” he said.
“I have no regrets, I wouldn’t change a thing. I have won more than I could have even dreamed of, but beyond the accolades and trophies, I am proud that no matter what, I have stuck to my principles of being sincere and have tried to leave everywhere better than I found it. I hope I have made you all proud.”
On his future plans, Varane added: “A new life begins off the pitch. I will remain with Como. Just without using my boots and shin pads. Something I am looking forward to sharing more about soon.”
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1732314198labto1732314198ofdlr1732314198owedi1732314198sni@g1732314198niwe.1732314198yrrah1732314198