IMAGE CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES
Raphael Varane left Manchester United in the summer as a free agent in May, after their emphatic FA Cup final win over Manchester City.
The Frenchman signed from Real Madrid in 2021 for a £42million fee.
After three years with the Red Devils, the 31-year-old sought a new challenge, being one of the most decorated defenders in history.
As a four-time Champions League, three-time La Liga and one-time World cup winner, Varane joined Serie A side Como in July.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Speaking to L’Equipe, Varane detailed the reasons behind his United exit.
He began by explaining that he went into his final season at the club with a vision to stay there for longer.
‘At the start of my last season at Manchester United, I was already telling myself that I would have liked to finish there, to extend the adventure a little further.
‘It didn’t happen and the summer was very eventful”, Varane said.
‘With United, I finished with a victory in the FA Cup, but I already knew that the club’s project didn’t suit me.
‘I was looking for something special, and that’s how I found Como,’ he explained.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
After earning £340k per week and £52million in his three years at United, Varane emphasised that his move was not financially driven.
‘Como was a project that stood out, it wasn’t exotic nor financially [rewarding] but humanly it made sense, and it still does, since I’m going to stay by their side.
The centre-back explained that after suffering his knee injury in August, he knew his retirement was imminent.
‘I also wanted to play only once a week. After the preseason, the family was supposed to follow me to Italy, but when I got injured on the 11th of August, I knew right away that it was over,’ he said.
‘I was sure of myself, because I had anticipated it.’
He went on to reveal that he will continue at Como, despite not playing for them.
His exact role is not detailed, but it could be a coaching or advisory position.
In a statement, he said: ‘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.’
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!