Former France and Real Madrid center-back Raphael Varane announced his retirement on Wednesday, concluding a career that featured a World Cup title and numerous club trophies. The 31-year-old Varane joined promoted Serie A club Como in July but suffered a knee injury during his only match with the team — an Italian Cup game against Sampdoria last month.
“They say all good things must come to an end. In my career I have taken on many challenges, rose to occasion after occasion, almost all of it was supposed to be impossible. Incredible emotions, special moments and memories that will last a lifetime. Reflecting on these moments, it is with immense pride and a feeling of fulfillment that I am announcing my retirement from the game that we all love. I hold myself to the highest standard, I want to go out strong, not just holding on to the game. It takes a big dose of courage to listen to your heart and your instinct. Desire and needs are two different things. 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 wrote on his instagram
“I have loved fighting for myself, my clubs, my country, my teammates and the supporters of every team I have played for. From Lens to Madrid to Manchester, and playing for our national team. I have defended every badge with everything I have, and loved every minute of the journey. The game at the highest level is a thrilling experience. It tests every level of your body and your mind. The emotions we experience you cannot find anywhere else. As athletes, we are never satisfied, never accepting of success. It is our nature and what fuels us. 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,” he further wrote.
“And so, 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. For now, to the supporters of every club I played for, to my teammates, coaches and staff… from the bottom of my heart, thank you for making this journey more special than my wildest dreams could ever foresee. Thank you, football. With love, Rapha,” the real madrid star concluded.
Varane's career
Varane was the standout defender of the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where he scored the most crucial of his five international goals with a header against Uruguay in the quarterfinals. An elegant, ball-playing defender with exceptional positional awareness due to his quick reading of the game, Varane formed a formidable center-back partnership with Samuel Umtiti during that tournament. He also contributed to Madrid's success with four Champions League titles and three Spanish league trophies. Later he transferred to Manchester United in 2021 but made only 95 appearances over three seasons in England, primarily due to injuries.
Varane had previously retired from France's national team a few months after the World Cup final loss to Argentina in 2022. During that match, his 93rd for Les Bleus after debuting in 2013, he collapsed from exhaustion deep into extra time. He mentioned he would remain at Como: “Just without using my boots and shin pads. Something I am looking forward to sharing more about soon."
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