Former Real Madrid and Man United star Raphael Varane RETIRES from football aged 31

His decision to retire at a premature age of 31 is due to a knee injury that he suffered while making his debut for Como, against Sampdoria. Varane was initially thought to be out for a month, but the club’s decision to leave him off the roster pointed to its seriousness. Prior to this, he spent ten years at Real Madrid, winning four UCL titles, four Club World Cups and three La Liga titles. He made 360 appearances for the Los Blanocs, and went on to forge a brilliant center-back pairing with club legend Sergio Ramos.

Varane also leaves behind a rich legacy with the French national team as well. He was a key-part of France’s 2018 World Cup winning team, and the team that reached the finals of the World Cup in Qatar, four years later. 

France head coach Didier Deschamps pays tribute to retiring defender Raphael Varane

Raphael Varane’s decision to retire at 31 has left the entire footballing fraternity in shock, including French national team manager Didier Deschamps. The former player paid tribute to the center-back on social media. 

Varane made 93 appearances for France, since making his debut in 2013. Manager Deschamps lauded him for his professionalism, as well as his vision, technique and mentality. Moreover, he expressed that the national team was like a family for Varane, and would always be welcomed in it. He also praised the Varane’s leadership abilities and his devotion toward the national team.

Prior to his stint with the national team, the former Manchester United defender also played at the youth levels for France. He was a part of France under-21, under-20 and under-18 sides, making a combined 18 appearances for them.