Former Manchester United, Real Madrid, and France defender, Raphael Varane, has officially announced his retirement from football at the age of 31.
The center-back, who joined Italian club Como on a free transfer in July, has decided to step away from the game after suffering a knee injury on his debut against Sampdoria last month. Despite hanging up his boots, Varane will stay on with the Italian club in a non-playing role.
“I hold myself to the highest standard, I want to go out strong, not just holding on to the game,” Varane shared in an Instagram post. “It takes a big dose of courage to listen to your heart and your instinct.”
Varane’s career has been nothing short of illustrious. Starting at French side Lens, he spent only one season in the first team before making a big move to Real Madrid in 2011. During his 10-year stint with the Spanish giants, he won an incredible 18 trophies, including three La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League titles, cementing his place as one of the game’s elite defenders.
In the summer of 2021, Varane transferred to Manchester United for an initial fee of £34 million. Despite facing several injury setbacks, he made 95 appearances in all competitions for the Red Devils. He also played a key role in United’s Carabao Cup triumph in 2022 and his final match for the club was the FA Cup final victory over Manchester City in May 2023.
Internationally, Varane’s contributions were equally significant. He made his debut for France in 2013, earning 93 caps over the span of his international career. His crowning achievement came in 2018 when he helped France win the FIFA World Cup. He was also part of the team that won the Nations League in 2021 and reached the World Cup final again in 2022.
Reflecting on his career, Varane said, “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 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.”
As for his future, Varane hinted at new opportunities ahead, noting that he will remain with Como in a different capacity. “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.”
Varane has also been an outspoken advocate for player welfare, especially regarding the effects of heading the ball. In April, he shared that the repetitive action had “damaged his body” and recalled finishing a 2014 World Cup match for France on “autopilot” after suffering a concussion. He has since called for greater protection and better awareness of such issues in football.
As one of the most decorated defenders of his generation, Varane leaves behind a legacy of excellence, professionalism, and integrity both on and off the field.