World Cup winner Raphael Varane bids farewell to football after illustrious career

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French World Cup-winning defender Raphael Varane has officially announced his retirement from football, after a knee injury sustained after his move to Serie A club Como 1907.

On Wednesday, the former Real Madrid and Manchester United centre-back shared the news via Instagram stating, “They say all good things must come to an end.”

The four-time Champions League winner retires as one of the most decorated defenders of the game, having played 573 for club and country.

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The 31-year-old began his career at Lens, before going on to play the majority of his career for Madrid.

“In my career I have taken on many challenges, rose to occasion after occasion, almost all of it was supposed to be impossible,” Varane wrote.

“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.

Raphael Varane’s partnership with Sergio Ramos is viewed as one of Europe’s most dominant defensive duos. During their time together at Real Madrid, Varane lifted 18 major trophies.”

Among his collection are four Champions League titles, which helped define Real Madrid’s European dominance. He also captured three La Liga titles, four Club World Cups, three UEFA Super Cups, and multiple domestic trophies in Spain.

“… It’s the moment to stop and hang my boots”

“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,” The 31-year-old further wrote.

“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,” he stated.

Following his stellar years at Real Madrid, Varane made a high-profile move to Manchester United. There, he added more silverware to his name, winning the League Cup and FA Cup. His steady presence in defense provided much-needed experience to United’s backline.

In the summer of 2023, Varane surprised many by joining Serie A’s newly-promoted Como 1907. Despite a brief stint in Italy, his career was cut short due to a knee injury, leading to his retirement announcement.

Tags: Raphael Varane, France, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Lens, #NewsRoundTheClock, #nrtcnewsnigeria, #nrtcnigeria, #nrtcnews, #nrtcsports.