Former France and Real Madrid center back Raphael Varane has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 31. Varane, who recently signed with Serie A club Como, made this decision following a knee injury sustained during his debut match for the team in an Italian Cup fixture against Sampdoria.
Varane reflected on his illustrious career, expressing immense pride and fulfillment in his Instagram post. The defender played a pivotal role in France's 2018 World Cup triumph, showcasing his defensive prowess and scoring crucial goals, including a memorable header against Uruguay in the quarterfinals.
Known for his elegant style of play and exceptional positional sense, Varane enjoyed a successful spell at Real Madrid, winning four Champions League titles and three La Liga trophies. Despite a move to Manchester United in 2021, his time in England was marred by injuries, limiting his appearances for the club.
Having started his career at Lens, Varane emphasized his dedication to every team he represented, including the French national team. He retired from international duty following the World Cup final defeat to Argentina in 2022, capping off a remarkable journey that saw him earn 93 caps for Les Bleus.
Varane expressed gratitude for his achievements and stated his intention to remain involved with Como in a different capacity, hinting at future endeavors beyond the pitch. Como recently secured a historic Serie A victory under the guidance of coach Cesc Fabregas, marking a significant milestone for the club.
As Varane bids farewell to a decorated playing career, fans and colleagues alike celebrate his contributions to the sport and wish him well in his future endeavors.
