France World Cup winner Raphaël Varane has announced his retirement from football, bringing down the curtain on a career which saw him win four Champions League titles with Real Madrid. The former France defender was set to play for Como this season in Serie A, but he announced his immediate retirement from the sport on Wednesday due to a knee injury. He played just 20 minutes at Como in a Coppa Italia match, before sustaining the injury. Varane will stay with Como in a yet undefined non-playing role.
Varane had been struggling with injury after leaving Manchester United at the end of last season on a free transfer. He agreed to join Cesc Fabregas at Como, but he has made the call to retire.
"They say all good things must come to an end," Varane said in a statement posted to Instagram.
"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 instinct. Desire and needs are two different things."
The announcement ends a career which saw him play for a decade at Madrid after joining the Spanish giants from Lens in 2011. He played 360 times for Madrid and won three La Liga titles (2012, 2017, 2020) along with four Champions Leagues (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018). He also won the 2014 Copa del Rey there, alongside the Club World Cup in 2014, 2016, 2017 and 2018.
He moved to United for a fee in the region of €41 million ($46m) in 2021 and helped them to the 2024 FA Cup and 2023 League Cup. At international level, he was part of the France team that won the World Cup in 2018 and reached the final in 2022.
"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."
United said in a post on X: "You represented our colours with great distinction during your three seasons at Old Trafford. We thank you for your humility, leadership and commitment. May these qualities serve you well in your next venture. Once a Red, always a Red."
France manager Didier Deschamps paid tribute to Varane in a statement from the French Football Federation, describing his former charge as "a leader on the pitch but also off it, where his opinion was always listened to and respected."
Madrid also wished him well in a statement.
"Raphaël Varane will always be in the hearts of all Real Madrid fans as one of the greatest centre-backs in the history of Real Madrid and for always representing the values of our club," it read.
"Real Madrid would like to wish him and his family the best of luck in this new chapter of his life."
Varane's Career Highlights
Varane's career is a testament to his dedication and talent. From his early days at Lens, he quickly rose to prominence with Real Madrid, winning numerous trophies and solidifying his place as one of the best defenders in the world. His four Champions League titles with Real Madrid and a World Cup victory with France stand out as particular achievements.
From Madrid to Manchester
After a decade of success at Real Madrid, Varane moved to Manchester United in 2021. While he did not enjoy the same level of success as he did in Spain, he still made a significant contribution to the club, winning the FA Cup and the League Cup. His presence brought stability and leadership to the United backline.
A Farewell to the Game
Varane's decision to retire at such a young age is a reminder that injuries can unfortunately derail even the most successful careers. Despite his unfortunate injury at Como, Varane's legacy in the world of football is secure. He leaves behind a legacy of excellence, resilience, and unwavering determination. As he embarks on a new chapter, he can look back on a career filled with trophies and accolades, knowing he gave his all on the pitch.
Varane's Future Plans
While Varane will be missed on the pitch, his departure from the world of football is not a complete one. He will remain with Como in a non-playing role, potentially transitioning to a coaching position. His extensive knowledge of the game and experience at the highest level will be invaluable to Como. This move signifies a natural progression for the defender, suggesting a desire to continue contributing to the sport he loves, even if his playing days are over.
The future may hold a coaching role for Varane, where he can mentor young players and shape the next generation of talent. He is a natural leader, known for his professionalism and commitment. Varane’s presence on the sidelines could provide a valuable asset to any club looking to instill discipline and a winning mentality in their players.
A Legacy of Excellence
Raphaël Varane’s retirement may mark the end of his playing career, but his legacy will live on. His unwavering commitment to the game, his dedication to excellence, and his impact on the pitch will be remembered for years to come. As he embarks on a new journey, it will be intriguing to see what the future holds for the talented Frenchman. Whether he takes on a coaching role, becomes an influential figure in the sport's administration, or explores other avenues, one thing is certain: Varane’s contribution to football is far from over.
This is a story that will undoubtedly continue to unfold, offering a glimpse into the diverse opportunities that await a footballer who has achieved so much. Varane’s journey is an inspiration to aspiring athletes, demonstrating the importance of hard work, dedication, and resilience in achieving success on and off the pitch.
The question is, will his absence in the world of professional football be felt as much as we expect it to? Will he make a significant impact in his new venture, just as he did on the field? Only time will tell.
