Raphaël Varane, a former defender for Real Madrid and Manchester United, has declared his retirement from the game.
Varane ended a 14-year career at the pinnacle of the sport on Wednesday morning by confirming the news on social media.
The 31-year-old is most recognized for his ten years of major trophy wins, including four Champions Leagues, during his time spent in the Spanish city.
Varane, who started every game for France as they won the 2018 World Cup, was regarded at the time as one of the top defenders in the world.
But Varane has been plagued by injuries lately, and this summer he left United to sign with Como in Italy.
He’s also a key player for the French national team, contributing to their success in winning the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Varane is celebrated for his speed, strength, and ability to read the game, making him one of the top center-backs in modern football.
In aerial duels, he stands out with strong heading ability, crucial for defending set pieces and winning balls in the air. He is also comfortable with the ball at his feet, capable of initiating attacks through accurate long passes or quick short plays that help transition from defense to offense.
He possesses excellent positioning, allowing him to anticipate attacks and intercept passes effectively. His ability to read the game helps maintain defensive shape. Varane’s pace is another key asset; he can recover quickly against fast attackers, often tracking back to bolster the defense when necessary.
The seasoned centre defender has only made one appearance for Cesc Fabregas’ team this season, and after receiving word of yet another injury, he has officially announced his retirement from competitive action.
