Former France and Real Madrid center-back Raphael Varane has officially announced his retirement, bringing to a close a glittering career filled with both international and club success, including a World Cup victory and numerous other trophies. The 31-year-old Varane, who had recently signed with Serie A club Como in July, unfortunately, sustained a knee injury during his only appearance for the club in an Italian Cup match against Sampdoria last month, which may have contributed to his decision to step away from the game.
Reflecting on his career, Varane shared a heartfelt message on Instagram: “In my career, I have faced numerous challenges and risen to meet them, many of which seemed impossible. Looking back at those moments, I feel immense pride and fulfillment as I announce my retirement from the game we all love.” His words encapsulate the sense of accomplishment and gratitude that he feels as he steps away from professional football.
Varane’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary. He was one of the standout performers during France’s triumphant 2018 World Cup campaign in Russia, playing a key role in defense. He even netted a crucial goal, heading home against Uruguay in the quarterfinals. His contribution to France’s success in that tournament cemented his status as one of the world’s best defenders.
A graceful and intelligent defender, Varane’s ability to read the game and his positional awareness made him a formidable presence at the back. During the 2018 World Cup, he formed a highly effective center-back partnership with Samuel Umtiti, which was crucial to France’s success in lifting the trophy.
Varane also enjoyed an immensely successful club career, particularly during his time at Real Madrid, where he helped the Spanish giants secure four Champions League titles and three La Liga championships. After leaving Madrid in 2021, Varane joined Manchester United but struggled with injuries during his three-year stint in England, limiting him to just 95 appearances across all competitions.
His professional journey began at French club Lens, where he first made a name for himself before moving on to the grand stages of Madrid and Manchester. “From Lens to Madrid to Manchester, and playing for our national team, I have defended every badge with everything I had, and loved every minute of it,” Varane said. “I have no regrets. I wouldn’t change a thing. I’ve won more than I ever dreamed possible.”
Varane had already retired from international duty with France earlier this year, just a few months after the heartbreaking World Cup final loss to Argentina in 2022. That match marked his 93rd and final appearance for “Les Bleus,” a journey that began in 2013. Exhausted and physically drained, he collapsed onto the pitch during extra time in that final, a symbol of the immense effort he put into his national team career.
Under the guidance of coach Didier Deschamps, Varane emerged as one of the key leaders in the French squad, alongside players like Hugo Lloris, Paul Pogba, and Antoine Griezmann. Deschamps praised Varane’s decision to retire, calling it a well-considered and mature choice: “Knowing him, I understand how difficult this decision must have been, but it is one we should respect. His career was magnificent, defined by speed, vision, technique, and mental fortitude.”
Deschamps also highlighted Varane’s leadership qualities and team spirit: “I will remember a player who was always focused on others and the team. He shared a perfect understanding with our captain, Hugo Lloris. Whether in the national team or at his clubs, he was always a true professional.” Over the course of his international career, Varane participated in 22 major tournament matches, consistently demonstrating his class and commitment.
Although Varane is stepping away from playing, he has indicated that he will remain with Como in some capacity. “I will stay at Como, just without my boots and shin pads,” he hinted, leaving fans curious about what’s next for the football icon.
Como, under the guidance of coach Cesc Fabregas, recently earned its first Serie A victory in over two decades, defeating Atalanta 3-2. Varane’s decision to continue his involvement with the club, albeit off the pitch, suggests that his passion for football remains undiminished, even as he transitions into the next phase of his life.
