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Tom Hamilton, Senior Writer
France World Cup Winners rafael varane has announced his retirement from football, bringing an end to a career that saw him win four titles. Champions League with the title real Madrid,
The former France defender was set to play As In this season Serie ABut he announced his immediate retirement from the game on Wednesday because of a knee injury. He played just 20 minutes at Como. Italian Cup Before suffering the injury, Varane played in one match with Como. Varane will remain with Como in an as yet undefined non-playing role.
Varane has struggled with injuries since leaving the club. Manchester United Joined on a free transfer at the end of last season. He agreed to join Cesc Fabregas at Como but has decided to retire.
“They say all good things must come to an end,” Wren said. Statement posted on Instagram.
“In my career I have faced many challenges, achieved success on many occasions, almost all of which seemed impossible. Incredible emotions, special moments and memories that will last a lifetime. Looking back on these moments, it is with a feeling of immense pride and satisfaction that I announce my retirement from the sport we all love.
“I hold myself to the highest standard, I want to go strong, not just hold on to the game. It takes a huge dose of courage to follow your heart and your conscience. Wants and needs are two different things.”
The announcement brings an end to his career which saw him play for a decade in Madrid after joining the Spanish giants from 2008 to 2010. Lens He played 360 matches for Madrid and won three La Liga titles (2012, 2017, 2020) as well as four Champions Leagues (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018). He also won the 2014 Champions League title. King’s Cup The Club World Cup will be hosted there in 2014, 2016, 2017 and 2018.
He moved to United in 2021 for a fee of €41 million ($46m) and helped them to the 2024 FA Cup and 2023 League Cup. At international level, he was part of the France team that won the World Cup in 2018 and reached the final in 2022.
“I have fallen and got up thousands of times, and this time, it is my moment to stop and hang up my boots with my final match being a trophy-winning one at Wembley,” Varane said in a statement.
“I love fighting for myself, for my clubs, for my country, for my teammates and for the supporters of every team I have played for. From Lens to Madrid and Manchester and playing for our national team. I have defended every badge with all my might and have enjoyed every moment of this journey. Sport at the highest level is a thrilling experience. It tests every level of your body and mind. The emotions we experience are something you cannot get anywhere else. As athletes, we are never satisfied, never take success for granted. This is our nature and this is what gives us energy.
“I have no regrets, I wouldn’t change anything. I have won more than I ever dreamed of, but beyond the awards and trophies, I am proud of the fact that no matter what, I have stuck to my principles of being honest and trying to leave every place in a better position. I hope I have made you all proud.
“And so, a new life off the field has begun. I will be staying with Como. Just not using my boots and shin pads. Something I look forward to sharing more about soon.”
United said Post to X“You represented our colours brilliantly during your three seasons at Old Trafford. We thank you for your humility, leadership and commitment. Hopefully these qualities will serve you well in your next endeavour. Once a Red, always a Red.”
France manager Didier Deschamps paid tribute to Varane in a statement released by the French Football Federation, describing his former player as “a leader not only on the field but also off it, where his opinion was always listened to and respected.”
Madrid also wished him well In a statement,
It read, “Raphael Varane will always remain in the hearts of all Real Madrid fans, as he is one of the greatest centre-backs in Real Madrid history and has always represented the values of our club.”
“Real Madrid would like to wish him and his family all the best in this new chapter of his life.”