Former Manchester United and Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane has reportedly retired from professional football, just two months after signing for Serie A club Como.
The 31-year-old left Manchester United at the end of last season upon the expiry of his contract and subsequently joined Como on a two-year deal.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
However, Varane sustained a serious knee injury during his debut for the club in a Coppa Italia match against Sampdoria.
The French defender was forced off the pitch after just 23 minutes and, due to the severity of the injury, was removed from Como’s Serie A squad.
Varane has faced several injury issues in recent years, and according to reports, this latest setback may have brought an end to his illustrious playing career.
The 31-year-old’s impressive list of achievements includes the World Cup, four Champions League titles, three La Liga trophies, and an FA Cup victory.
In July, after joining Como, Varane expressed his excitement about helping the club establish itself in Serie A.
The Frenchman had been eager to work alongside former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas, who currently manages the team.
“I’m very happy and excited about this new project, and I can’t wait to get started and meet up with the team and my team-mates,” Varane said at the time.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
“There’s also the physical preparation for the season to look forward to.”
He went on to explain how the unique nature of the project had caught his attention: “At first, I was curious to find out what the project was all about, and then I immediately saw that it was special, different from any other I’d been offered, so I wanted to know more.”
Now, Raphael Varane has officially announced he has retired from professional football.
In a statement made on Instagram Varane said; “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 fulfillment 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.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
“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.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
“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 ”
Raphael Varane leaves behind a legacy as one of the most accomplished defenders of his generation.
His achievements at Real Madrid and Manchester United are a testament to his skill and determination, with Old Trafford remaining a place where he is fondly remembered after winning the Carabao Cup and FA Cup during his time with the Red Devils.
Varane’s retirement would mark the conclusion of a storied career, and fans worldwide will undoubtedly wish him the best for his future endeavors.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!