Raphael Varane has decided to retire from football after 14 years of top-level play. At 31, the French defender made the announcement following persistent injury problems, particularly with his knee. His decision was first reported by Le Parisien and then confirmed by Varane himself.
Earlier this summer, Raphael Varane left Manchester United as a free agent and joined Italian side Como, responding to an invitation from Cesc Fabregas. However, since the start of the season, he managed to play only one match. That appearance came in the Coppa Italia against Sampdoria on August 11.
Recurring knee problems seem to have finally taken their toll on the brilliant defender. Varane had previously struggled with knee injuries, particularly during his early days at Real Madrid, where he missed significant time due to a meniscus issue.
Varane began his professional career at Lens before joining Real Madrid at just 18 years old for a fee of €11 million. During his 10 years at the Spanish giants, he won four Champions League titles and three La Liga titles. He also lifted numerous other trophies, including Super Cups and four Club World Cup titles. In 2021, he made a high-profile transfer to Manchester United for €40 million.
At Manchester United, Varane did not find the same level of success. The club was far from its former glory, and in his three seasons there, he won just one FA Cup and one League Cup.
Following France’s loss to Argentina in the dramatic 2022 World Cup final, Raphael Varane decided to retire from international football. He made 93 appearances for the French national team and played a key role in their 2018 World Cup triumph. In that same year, he was named in UEFA’s Team of the Season and the Champions League Team of the Year.
Varane will be remembered as one of the best defenders of his era.
In his farewell statement, Raphael Varane expressed the emotional journey behind his decision:
“It takes an enormous amount of courage to listen to your heart and instincts. Wants and needs are different things. I’ve fallen and risen a thousand times, but this time, it’s time to stop. I loved fighting for myself, my clubs, my country, my teammates, and the fans of every club I played for.”
“Playing at the highest level is an exhilarating experience. It tests every part of your body and mind. The emotions you feel are impossible to find anywhere else. As athletes, we never accept failure, it’s in our nature and it drives us. I have no regrets and wouldn’t change a thing. I’ve won more than I could ever dream of, but more than the trophies and recognition, I’m proud of staying true to my principles and always being honest.”
In his announcement, Raphael Varane also revealed that he plans to remain with Como, though not as a player. He declined to specify what his new role will be but hinted that his involvement with the club will continue in some capacity.
