Unfortunately, injuries have ultimately hindered the career of Raphaël Varane. The defender, who at 31 years old was poised to embark on his new adventure at Como of Cesc Fàbregas, couldn't showcase his football in Italy with much regularity. Why? Due to a knee injury that has led the former Real Madrid player to ultimately hasten his retirement.
The decision of the Lille native to leave football has moved from an open secret to an official status, as confirmed by the defender through his social media channels (@RaphaelVarane) by issuing a statement in which he affirmed the decision. "Throughout my career, I have taken on many challenges and risen to the occasion, nearly all of them considered impossible. I have experienced incredible emotions, special moments, and memories that will last a lifetime. Reflecting on these moments, I announce with immense pride and a sense of satisfaction my retirement from the sport we all love," he began.
Raphaël Varane's statement after his retirement
In this regard, Varane delved into how challenging it has been for him to make this decision, but affirmed that he will have the necessary determination to overcome it. "I demand the most from myself, I want to come out strong, not just cling to the game. It takes a great deal of courage to listen to your heart and your instinct. Desire and needs are two different things. I have fallen and gotten up a thousand times, and this time it's time to stop and hang up my boots with my final game winning a trophy at Wembley," he pointed out.
For his part, the Frenchman took the opportunity to thank the clubs that gave him the chance to defend their colors, including the national team, highlighting the commitment he has maintained with every shirt he has worn. "I have loved fighting for myself, for my clubs, for my country, for my teammates, and for the fans of all the teams I have played for. From Lens to Madrid and Manchester, and playing for our national team. I have defended every badge with everything I had and enjoyed every minute of the journey. Playing at the highest level is an exhilarating experience. It tests all levels of your body and mind. The emotions we experience cannot be found anywhere else. As athletes, we are never satisfied, we never accept success. It is our nature and what drives us," he added.
"I regret nothing, I would change nothing. I have won more than I could ever have dreamed of, but beyond the praise and trophies, I am proud that, no matter what happened, I remained true to my principles of being honest and trying to leave everything better than I found it. I hope I have made you all proud," he stated.
Raphaël Varane concluded his statement by affirming that he will assume a new role in the world of football and at Como, as well as expressing his gratitude again to various sectors of the football world that have supported him throughout his career. "So begins a new stage off the field. I will remain in Como, but without sports shoes or shin guards. I hope to share more details soon," he emphasized.
"For now, to the fans of each club I played for, to my teammates, coaches, and staff... from the depths of my heart, thank you for making this journey something more special than even my wildest dreams could have imagined," he concluded.
What does the French defender's trophy cabinet look like after his farewell?
In his trophy cabinet are four Champions League titles (2014, 2016, 2017, and 2018), three UEFA Super Cups (2014, 2016, 2017), four Club World Cups (2014, 2016, 2017, and 2018), three league titles (2012, 2017, and 2020), one Copa del Rey (2014), two Spanish Super Cups (2017 and 2020), one FA Cup (2024), and one League Cup (2023). Internationally, he has achieved a World Cup (2018) and a Nations League (2021).