Former Real Madrid and Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has announced his retirement from professional football, Afrosport reports.
The former France international, 31, made the announcement via his social media on Wednesday with a heartfelt message to his fans as well as all the clubs he’s ever represented.
“They say all good things must come to an end,” Varane wrote.
“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 fulfilment 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.
“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.
“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.”
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Varane, whose football career has been plagued with injuries in recent time, signed for Serie A newcomers Como on a free transfer from United. He, however, suffered a knee injury on his debut against Sampdoria last month, and he revealed that he will stay at the club in a non-playing role.
The defensive stalwart will no longer don the colours of any club as a footballer, as he finally calls time on a successful career that has seen him win numerous accolades including the FIFA World Cup with France and four UEFA Champions League titles with Madrid.
Varane began his career at French side Lens, where he spent just one season in the first team before joining Madrid in 2011. He spent 10 years at the Santiago Bernabeu, winning 18 trophies including three La Liga titles.
He then favoured a move to Old Trafford to join the Red Devils in 2021, making 95 appearances in all competitions. Despite struggling with injuries, he won the EFL Cup in 2022, with his final appearance for the club being an FA Cup final victory over rivals Manchester City at Wembley.
Varane, who first played for France in 2013, earned 93 caps for Les Bleus, winning the World Cup in 2018, the Nations League in 2021 and reaching the World Cup final again in 2022.
