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Varane faced challenges in maintaining consistent performance due to injuries following his transfer to the Red Devils from Real Madrid.
A significant knee injury further complicated matters, occurring just 20 minutes into his debut for Serie A club Como last month, which resulted in his exclusion from the squad.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the 31-year-old expressed, "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 fulfilment 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 hold on to the game. It takes a big dose of courage to listen to your heart and your instincts. 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 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,” he said
Teams Pay Tribute
The French national team utilized its official social media platform to express its profound respect and appreciation for its former captain in a heartfelt farewell message.
”Just a bit of dust in our eyes Thanks for all the hard work over the years Raph’ We’re all wishing @raphaelvarane
a happy retirement” the message read.
Real Madrid, the team with whom the player achieved remarkable success, also expressed their admiration for the three-time La Liga champion.
Manchester United also wrote on its X handle,”You represented our colours with great distinction during your three seasons at Old Trafford. We thank you for your humility, leadership and commitment. May these qualities serve you well in your next venture. Once a Red, always a Red.”
Varane had a distinguished tenure with Real Madrid, making 360 appearances and contributing to their success by securing three La Liga titles, four Champions League trophies, and a Copa del Rey, along with various other accolades over the course of a decade.
Subsequently, in 2021, he joined Manchester United, where he showcased his exceptional abilities despite encountering injury setbacks during his three-year tenure at Old Trafford, resulting in 95 appearances for the club.
Notably, his final match in a United uniform was marked by a significant achievement as he lifted the FA Cup, having played a pivotal role in their 2-1 victory over Manchester City at Wembley Stadium in May. Additionally, he contributed to the club’s triumph in the Carabao Cup during his time there.
Furthermore, Mr. Varane demonstrated his prowess on the international stage, playing a crucial role in France’s triumph at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Throughout his career with Les Bleus, he accumulated 93 caps before making the decision to retire from international duty at the age of 29 in February 2023.