By Humberto Viera
Sep 25, 2024, 1:53 PM EDT
French defender Raphael Varane, known for his time at teams such as Lens, Real Madrid and Manchester United, has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 31. The news was revealed in a letter on his social media, where he expressed his satisfaction and pride for his career.
In his message, Varane, born in Lille on 25 April 1993, reflected on his achievements and challenges overcome, saying: “They say that good things must come to an end. I have taken on many challenges throughout my career and I have picked myself up again and again. I have experienced incredible emotions, special moments and memories that will last.” With these words, the French centre-back announced his retirement with “pride and satisfaction”.
Varane also explained his desire to retire in top form, avoiding clinging to football without being at the top level. He stressed the importance of listening to his heart and instinct in this decision: “I demand the most from myself, I want to retire strong. It takes courage to know when to stop. After falling and getting up many times, now is the time to hang up my boots, after winning my last trophy at Wembley.”
The footballer expressed his gratitude to the clubs and fans, mentioning his love for competing in all the teams he played for, from Lens to the French national team. He also highlighted his pride in having maintained his principles of sincerity throughout his career.
Varane ends his football career with an impressive list of titles, including three league titles, two Spanish Super Cups, one Copa del Rey, four Champions Leagues, three European Super Cups and four Club World Cups with Real Madrid. He was also part of the French team that won the 2018 World Cup and the 2021 Nations League. In his last spell, he won the League Cup with Manchester United.
Although he had signed for Como, the club where Cesc Fàbregas plays, for this season, a knee injury prevented him from being registered, which ultimately led him to make the decision to retire.
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