Former Real Madrid and Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has announced his retirement from football on September 25, Wednesday. Varane, who was poised to play for Como in Serie A, has been sidelined due to an injury sustained during the Coppa Italia match and has not played for the Italian side since.
Reports surfaced on Tuesday indicating that the French defender was contemplating retirement following his recent setback. He shared his decision in a heartfelt Instagram post, expressing that “all good things must come to an end” and emphasising that he has “no regrets” about his illustrious career. Varane reflected on his accomplishments and memories, noting they bring him immense pride and fulfilment. He highlighted his desire to retire on a high note, with his second-to-last match being United’s victorious FA Cup final in May.
“They say all good things must come to an end,” Varane wrote. “In my career, I have taken on many challenges and risen 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.”
He continued, “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.”
Varane expressed his love for fighting for his clubs, country, teammates, and supporters. “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.”
Varane confirmed that a new chapter in his life is beginning off the pitch, stating, “I will remain with Como. Just without using my boots and shin pads. Something I am looking forward to sharing more about soon.”
“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,” he concluded.
Varane began his career at Lens, his hometown club in France, before joining Real Madrid in 2011. During his time in Madrid, he won 18 major trophies, including three La Liga titles and four Champions League victories. His stint at United began in 2021, where he played a key role in their Carabao Cup triumph in the 2022-23 season and FA Cup success the following year.
On the international stage, Varane’s career was equally impressive, winning the World Cup with France in 2018 and the Nations League in 2021, while earning 93 caps for his country.