World Cup winner and four-time Champions League champion Raphael Varane has announced his retirement from professional football, just weeks after suffering an injury during his debut for Como. The French defender, who was signed as a free agent by Como over the summer from Manchester United, picked up an injury in a Coppa Italia match against Sampdoria on August 11, forcing him to be removed from the Serie A squad.
Varane’s career has been filled with success and accolades. He joined Real Madrid from Lens at just 18 years old, where he played a pivotal role in the team’s dominance, winning four UEFA Champions League titles, three La Liga titles, four Club World Cups, and a Copa del Rey.
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In 2021, Varane transferred to Manchester United, where he added to his trophy cabinet with a League Cup win in 2023 and ended his career at the club by winning the FA Cup last season. His crowning achievement came in 2018 when he won the World Cup with the French national team.
Reflecting on his career, Varane said, “They say all good things must come to an end. In my career, I’ve faced many challenges and overcome almost all of them, things that seemed impossible at first.” He concluded his message with heartfelt gratitude: “To the supporters of every club I played for, my teammates, coaches, and staff—thank you for making this journey more special than I could have ever imagined. Thank you, football.”
Over his 14-year career, Varane made 573 appearances for his clubs and country. He also revealed that he would remain with Como in an administrative role following his retirement.
