Former Real Madrid and Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 31. The decision comes after a knee injury sustained on his debut for Serie A side Como.
Varane joined Como on a two-year deal after leaving Manchester United at the end of last season. However, his time at the Italian club was cut short due to the injury, which forced him to undergo surgery. Despite undergoing treatment, Varane has decided to end his playing career.
In an Instagram post, Varane said: “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 team-mates, coaches and staff… from the bottom of my heart, thank you for making this journey more special than my wildest dreams could ever foresee.”
In all, Varane made 480 club appearances across a 14-year career that saw him win the Champions League four times with Real, as well as earning 93 caps for France en route to lifting the 2018 World Cup.
Varane’s retirement marks the end of a highly successful career that saw him win multiple La Liga titles, Champions League trophies, and the FIFA World Cup with France.