Raphael Varane has announced his retirement at the age of 31. The French centre-back made the decision after suffering a serious knee injury while playing for Como in Serie A.
The player joined the newly promoted side on a two-year contract after leaving Manchester United at the end of last season. He suffered a knee injury on his Coppa Italia debut against sampdoria.
At the end of August, Varane was left out of the club's squad for the 2024-2025 season. And as the new season has gone through the first few rounds, the complexity of this injury has forced him to end his illustrious career.
In my career, I have gone through many challenges, many times of rising up, almost all of which were considered impossible. When I think back to these moments, I am extremely proud and satisfied to announce my retirement from the game that we all love, he shared on Comos official X account.
I always keep myself at the highest standard, I want to play with strength, not just stick to the game. It takes a great courage to listen to your heart and your instincts. I have fallen and stood up a thousand times, and this time, it is time to stop and hang up my boots with the final cup match at Wembley.
In total, Varane has made 480 club appearances during his 14-year career. The highest peak was when they won 4 Champions League titles and 3 La Liga titles with Real Madrid.
His most recent trophy was the FA Cup against Man United. He has played for France 93 times and won the 2018 World Cup.
Varane is expected to stay at Como as a coaching member.
I love fighting for myself, my club, my country, my teammates and the supporters of every team I have played for, he added, From Lens to Madrid to Manchester, and the national team. I have defended every symbol of the club with everything I have, and I love every minute of this journey.
I will stay in Como. Just don't wear shoes and wear a safety pin. something I hope to share more about soon.
Now, to the supporters of every club I have played for, to my teammates, coaches and staff... from the bottom of my heart, I would like to thank everyone for making this journey more special than I could have ever dreamed of. Thank you, football.
