France World Cup winner Raphael Varane announced his retirement from football on Wednesday at the age of 31, stating that he will continue with Como in a non-playing role.
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United centre-back had joined the Italian club this season but was left out of their Serie A squad after suffering a knee injury in August.
“A new chapter begins off the pitch,” Varane wrote on social media. “I will remain with Como, just without my boots and shin pads. I look forward to sharing more about this soon.” The four-time Champions League winner added.
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Varane began his career at Lens before moving to Real Madrid at 18 in 2011. He won his first of three La Liga titles in his debut season with the club and went on to secure his first Champions League title in 2014, adding a league and European double three years later.
In 2024, Varane joined Manchester United, where he helped the team win the League Cup and FA Cup. He departed Old Trafford last season to join Cesc Fabregas’ newly-promoted Como, but played only one Coppa Italia match before his knee injury.
Reflecting on his journey, Varane said: “From Lens to Madrid to Manchester, and representing our national team, I gave everything to defend each badge and loved every moment of the journey.”
Varane made his debut for France in 2013, and the highlight of his international career came in 2018 when he lifted the World Cup. He retired from international duty two years ago, finishing with 93 caps.
“I have achieved more than I ever dreamed,” Varane said. “But beyond the trophies, I’m proud to have stayed true to my principles and tried to leave every place better than I found it.”
Tributes poured in from former teammates, including Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes, who wrote on Instagram, “It was a pleasure for all of us.”