Raphaël Varane announces retirement from football

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By Martin Graham | 25th Sep 2024
Former World Cup champion Raphaël Varane has officially retired from professional football, following an illustrious career spanning clubs such as Real Madrid, Manchester United, and RC Lens. The 31-year-old French defender made his announcement on Wednesday morning through a heartfelt Instagram post, bringing an end to a remarkable chapter in his life.

An emotional farewell to the game
Varane, who recently signed with newly-promoted Serie A side Como after leaving Manchester United on a free transfer, explained his decision to hang up his boots. Injuries have marred his recent years on the pitch, prompting him to step away from football for good.

In his statement, Varane began by reflecting on his incredible journey: “They say all good things must come to an end. Throughout my career, I’ve embraced countless challenges, often against the odds, and it has brought me unforgettable emotions and moments that will remain with me forever.” He continued, expressing his sense of pride and fulfillment as he steps away from the sport.

The Frenchman emphasized that he wanted to retire on his terms, saying, “I hold myself to the highest standard, and I want to go out strong, not just hanging on. It takes courage to follow your heart and instincts. This time, it’s the moment to stop after a journey full of falling and rising, with my final game being a trophy-winning one at Wembley.”

A legacy beyond trophies
During his career, Varane earned accolades that many players can only dream of. From winning multiple Champions League titles with Real Madrid to lifting the World Cup with France, his legacy in football is undeniable. Yet, the defender stressed that his true pride comes from remaining true to his values. “I’ve won more than I could have imagined, but it’s the principles I held onto and the effort I gave that matter most. I hope I made everyone proud,” Varane stated.

He concluded his post by revealing that while his playing days are over, he intends to stay with Como in a new role, hinting at future plans he will share soon. He closed with heartfelt gratitude to his supporters, teammates, and coaches, adding, “Thank you for making this journey more special than anything I could have ever imagined.”

With Varane stepping into a new chapter off the field, the football world bids farewell to a player who gave everything for the game, leaving an indelible mark on every club and competition he graced.

Martin Graham is an MFF sports writer