Raphael Varane announces retirement from football

"It's the moment to stop and hang my boots up with my final game winning a trophy at Wembley."

Raphael Varane has announced his retirement from football, aged 31.

The former Real Madrid, Manchester United, Lens and France defender joined Italian side Como during the summer.

Varane, however, limped off with a knee injury after just 20 minutes of his debut for the Serie A side in a Coppa Italia match in August.

On Wednesday morning, the former France defender announced that he has decided to retire following the injury. He will remain with Como but in a yet unspecified role.

Varane retires following a hugely successful career. For Real Madrid, he won the Champions League four times, and La Liga three times.

He was also a key part of the France team that won the 2018 World Cup.

In Varane's last match for Manchester United, he won the FA Cup in a dramatic win over Manchester City.

The defender made over 500 career appearances

Varane reflected on his career in a lengthy social media post.

The statement reads:

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.

Thank you, football.

With love, Rapha.