Just three months after being released from Manchester United, Raphael Varane has announced his retirement from football.
In 2021, Manchester United signed Raphael Varane from Real Madrid and at the time he was seen as a real coup for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side.
After making this switch, Varane made 95 appearances for United – winning the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup in the process.
But after a season plagued with injury in 2023/24, Ineos made the correct call to let his contract expire in the summer.
He made the switch to Como which was a disaster making just one appearance which ended after 20 minutes – before he was then ruled out with injury which cast his future into doubt.
Now, he has announced his retirement from football.
Raphael Varane announces retirement
On Wednesday, Varane announced that he was retiring from football after a very successful career for Madrid, United and France.
Taking to Instagram he wrote: “They say all good things must come to an end.
“In my career I have taken on many challenges, rose to occasion after occasion, almost all of it was supposed to be impossible. Incredible emotions, special moments and memories that will last a lifetime. Reflecting on these moments, it is with immense pride and a feeling of fulfilment 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 a trophy at Wembley.
“I have loved fighting for myself, my clubs, my country, my teammates and the supporters of every team I have played for. 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. The game at the highest level is a thrilling experience. It tests every level of your body and your mind. The emotions we experience you cannot find anywhere else. As athletes, we are never satisfied, never accepting of success. It is our nature and what fuels us.
“I have no regrets, I wouldn’t change a thing. I have won more than I could have even dreamed of, but beyond the accolades and trophies, I am proud that no matter what, I have stuck to my principles of being sincere and have tried to leave everywhere better than I found it. I hope I have made you all proud.
“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 teammates, coaches and staff… from the bottom of my heart, thank you for making this journey more special than my wildest dreams could ever foresee.
“Thank you, football.
“With love, Rapha”.
In the comments under his post, several of Varane’s teammates from across his career have sent messages to the legendary defender.
Bruno Fernandes wrote: “It was a pleasure for all of us”, followed by a heart emoji.
Paul Pogba also responded, adding a bunch of heart emojis followed by a message: “What a pleasure to have shared this moment with you”.
Harry Maguire commented: “All the best mate”, with heart emojis.
Scott McTominay also responded, writing: “Legend Rapha… good luck for the stage”, followed by a heart.
Diogo Dalot wrote: “Football will miss you my warrior”.
Finally, David de Gea added: “Amazing player, Incredible person, football will miss you.”
Every trophy Raphael Varane won in his career
Varane has enjoyed an incredibly successful career with countless honours as he effectively completed football.
Upon moving to United, Varane added both an FA Cup and a Carabao Cup to his medal collection – with his FA Cup final display in particular being bittersweet.
In 2018, Varane won the World Cup with France – playing a key role in the tournament. With France, he also won a Nations League trophy.
The most successful period of Varane’s career was at Real Madrid where he won four Champions Leagues, four Club World Cups, three La Liga titles, three European Super Cups, three Spanish Super Cups and one Spanish Cup.
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