Defender who won two trophies with Manchester United announces retirement

Former Manchester United centre-back Raphaël Varane has announced his retirement from football, winning 22 trophies for both club and country.

The 2018 World Cup winner took to his social media account on Wednesday morning to announce his retirement from the round leather game.

He wrote on his Instagram account:

“ 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 fulfillment 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 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. “

“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.”

“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”

“And so, 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. “

“For now, 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 

Varane left Old Trafford this summer for Como but his stay with the newly promoted Serie A side was abruptly ended when he suffered a knee injury on his debut against Sampdoria.

The injury was set to rule him out for a while, which may have influenced his decision to call it quits.

He started his career with RC Lens but only spent a season with the French side before joining Real Madrid where he spent the most productive years of his career. 

Varane joined Los Blancos in 2011, made 360 appearances for the La Liga giants, and won 18 titles, including four Champions League and three La Liga titles, before his departure to Manchester United in 2021.

His stay with the Red Devils wasn’t as glittering as Real Madrid’s, winning just two titles before he left the club this summer.

He is considered a legend for France, having played a pivotal role in their 2018 Fifa World Cup triumph and also won the UEFA Nations League in 2021.