Raphael Varane Announces Surprise Retirement From Football At Age Of 31

Former Manchester United defender, Raphael Varane has announced his retirement from football at the age of 31.

Raphael Varane faced challenges with consistent performance due to injuries after moving to Manchester United from Real Madrid.

Recently, a serious knee injury during his debut with Serie A club Como sidelined him just 20 minutes into the match, preventing him from participating further.

In a statement released on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, Varane expressed his reflections on his career, stating, “‘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.”

Raphael Varane began his professional career at Lens in France, spending just one season in their first team before moving to Real Madrid in 2011.

During his ten years in Madrid, Varane won 18 trophies, including three La Liga titles and four Champions League titles.

He joined Manchester United in the summer of 2021 for around £34 million and made 95 appearances for the club. His notable achievements with United include winning the Carabao Cup in 2022, and his last game was a triumphant FA Cup final against Manchester City in May.

Varane made his international debut for France in 2013 and earned 93 caps, playing a vital role in the team’s success, including winning the World Cup in 2018, the Nations League in 2021, and reaching the World Cup final again in 2022.

Meanwhile, former Nigerian captain, Mikel Obi has tackled African footballers who choose to play for European countries instead of their fatherland.