Raphael Varane Retires from Football at 31 Following Knee Injury
Raphael Varane, France’s World Cup-winning defender, has announced his retirement from football at the age of 31. The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star made the decision after suffering a serious knee injury, marking the end of a highly successful career.
Varane, who earned 93 caps for France between 2013 and 2022, played a crucial role in Les Bleus’ triumphant 2018 World Cup campaign in Russia. He also helped guide the national team to a runner-up finish in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The French defender began his club career at Lens in Ligue 1 before making a high-profile move to Real Madrid in 2011. During his decade-long stay in the Spanish capital, Varane made 360 appearances for Los Blancos, winning three LaLiga titles and four Champions League trophies as part of one of the most successful Real Madrid squads in history.
In 2021, Varane transferred to Manchester United, where he featured 95 times across all competitions, contributing to the club’s League Cup win in 2023 and the FA Cup triumph in 2024. This past summer, Varane moved to Serie A club Como, but unfortunately, a knee injury sustained during his debut forced him to call time on his playing career.
Reflecting on his retirement, Varane shared an emotional message on Instagram, writing:
“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,” referring to Manchester United’s FA Cup win in May.
Varane expressed gratitude for his journey:
“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.”
Although he has stepped away from the pitch, Varane will remain involved in football, taking up a non-playing role at Como.
“A new life begins off the pitch. I will remain with Como, just without using my boots and shin pads. Something I am looking forward to sharing more about soon,” he added.
