 "Raphael Varane, former Real Madrid and Manchester United defender, retires from football at 31")
Former Real Madrid and Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has retired from professional football at the age of 31 after suffering a knee injury. Varane had joined Serie A club Como earlier this season after his contract at Man United ended. However, after suffering a knee injury recently the former World Cup winner decided to retire from football.
He played just one match for Como in the CoppA Itali but was substituted after just 20 minutes.
Varane’s most successful tenure at the club level came at Real Madrid where he played for 10 seasons and won 18 trophies including three La Liga titles and four Champions League top prizes.
He won the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup with Man United and the World Cup in 2018 with his national team France.
He made the retirement announcement through Instagram.
His full statement:
“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. 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.
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.
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Thank you, football.
With love, Rapha”
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