Raphael Varane Bids Farewell: Former France and Real Madrid Star Announces Retirement from Football

Considered as one of the best defenders in football, Raphael Varane's sudden retirement at just 31 years old has startled supporters all over. Varane's choice to leave the pitch marks a sudden conclusion to a significant chapter in football history, despite his outstanding career and reputation as a top player.

Also Read: Gujarat Giants SWOT Analysis: Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities

Raphael Varane has announced his retirement from football

Raphael Varane, former France and Real Madrid centre defender, announced his retirement on Wednesday, therefore completing a career marked with a World Cup triumph and a significant run of club medals.

Varane, 31, joined with promoted Serie A team Como in July but tore his knee during his one and only appearance with the team—an Italian Cup game against Sampdoria last month.

“In my career I have taken on many challenges, rose to occasion after occasion, almost all of it was supposed to be impossible,” Varane wrote on Instagram. “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.”

Varane was arguably the tournament’s standout defender when France won the 2018 World Cup in Russia. He also helped Madrid to four Champions League titles and three Spanish league trophies.

He moved to Manchester United in 2021 but was restricted to 95 appearances in his three seasons in England — mainly because of injuries.

Varane began his career at Lens.

“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,” Varane said. “I have no regrets, I wouldn’t change a thing. I have won more than I could have even dreamed of.”

Varane had already retired from France’s national team, a few months after the World Cup final defeat to Argentina in 2022.

Varane said he would remain at Como: 

“Just without using my boots and shin pads. Something I am looking forward to sharing more about soon.”

Como got its first Serie A victory in more than 21 years when coach Cesc Fabregas’ team won 3-2 at Atalanta on Tuesday. ___

(With AP inputs)