Raphael Varane retires: The lanky defender who ruled the world in 2018

Sports Tak Staff February 2 , 2023 [{ "selector": ".cuwjq-a", "duration": "500ms", "fill": "forwards", "delay": "1000ms", "keyframes": [ {"offset": 0, "transform": "translateX(-375px) scale(0.15)", "opacity": "68%"}, {"offset": 1, "transform": "translateX(0) scale(1)", "opacity": "68%"} ] }, { "selector": ".btplt-a", "duration": "500ms", "fill": "forwards", "delay": "1500ms", "keyframes": [ {"offset": 0, "transform": "translateX(calc(360px - 8px)) scale(0.15)", "opacity": "1"}, {"offset": 1, "transform": "translateX(0px) scale(1)", "opacity": "1"} ] }, { "selector": ".eianz-a", "duration": "500ms", "fill": "forwards", "delay": "500ms", "keyframes": [ {"offset": 0, "opacity": 0}, {"offset": 1, "opacity": "1"} ] }, { "selector": ".isgdo-a", "duration": "500ms", "fill": "forwards", "delay": "2000ms", "keyframes": [ {"offset": 0, "opacity": 0}, {"offset": 1, "opacity": "1"} ] }]

France and Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has called time on an illustrious career with the international team.

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Varane, who made his France debut in March 2013, made 93 appearances for Les Bleus.

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The former Real Madrid centre-back started all seven games of France's successful 2018 World Cup campaign.

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Always considered a top talent, Varane faced many injury issues ahead of major tournaments.

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He missed the 2016 UEFA Euros, in which France 1-0 in the final vs Portugal.

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In the 2022 edition, he played six of France's matches in Qatar, including in the final against Argentina.

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On Wednesday, Varane shared an Instagram post confirming his retirement from the international stage.

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Varane is the fourth member of France's 2018 World Cup squad to retire from international football.

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These are Blaise Matuidi, Steve Mandanda and former captain Hugo Lloris.

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