The former Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 31 due to constant injuries.
The classy defender left the Reds at the end of last season, with his final outing a typically outstanding performance in the 2-1 Emirates FA Cup final victory over Manchester City at Wembley.
His journey began at Real Madrid where he won multiple Champions League and La Liga titles, strengthening his place as one of the best defenders of his generation. Internationally, Varane played a pivotal role in France’s 2018 World Cup triumph, adding to his growing list of accolades.
Following the expiration of his contract, he joined the Italian side Como but suffered a knee injury on his debut and was subsequently not registered in their Serie A squad.
Didier Deschamps the French National Team Coach said that Varane’s retirement brings an end to one of the most memorable careers in modern football.
“Alongside Sergio Ramos, Varane formed a formidable partnership that defined Real Madrid’s defense for nearly a decade full of prosperity at the Spanish club,” Deschamps said.
Varane said that in his career, he has taken on many challenges, and also rose to the occasion after occasion and almost all of it was supposed to be impossible.
Writing on his Instagram, “They say all good things must come to an end,” he said.
“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 instincts. 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 trophy at Wembley,” he said.
Manchester United, on their X handle, appreciated Varane for representing the club well.
“You represented our colors with great distinction during your three seasons at Old Trafford,” the statement reads in part.