Former France, Real Madrid and Manchester United defender Raphaël Varane has announced his shock retirement from football. It follows a serious knee injury on debut for Serie A club Como. Varane has had an illustrious career, particularly with France and Real Madrid.
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Post-retirement, Varane has indicated that he will stay on with Como in a non-playing capacity.
Varane announces retirement
Raphaël Varane has announced his shock retirement from football at the age of 31. Varane suffered a serious knee injury on debut at newly-promoted Serie A club, Como. He was subsequently not registered as part of the Como squad for Serie A.
In a statement posted to Instagram, Varane stated: “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 further stated: “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.”
End of an illustrious career
Varane has had an illustrious career. After commencing his career at Lens in 2010, he was signed by Real Madrid after only a year and at the age of 18. It was with Los Blancos that he enjoyed his most tremendous club success, winning four Champions League titles and three La Liga titles, amongst 18 trophies in total over a decade. During this time, he was regularly considered one of the world’s best defenders.
Additionally, Varane enjoyed stunning success with the French football team. He won the 2018 World Cup, the 2020/2021 UEFA Nations League, and was a member of France’s runners up team in the 2022 World Cup. He was capped 93 times in total for France.
Inbetween his time at Real Madrid and Como, Varane spent three years at Manchester United. His time with United was affected by injuries, however he again contributed to silverware, winning the Caraboa and FA Cups.
Post-retirement, Varane has indicated that he will stay on with Como in a non-playing capacity.
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