Varane: Como ‘special’ project is ‘another life’ | OneFootball

Former Manchester United and Real Madrid star Raphael Varane is living ‘another life’ at Como, as he agreed to remain as a club board member after a brief experience on the pitch that led him to hang up his boots once and for all.

The former centre-back joined the Serie A newcomers in the summer of 2024 but was just 23 minutes into his debut with them in the Coppa Italia when he picked up an injury that convinced him to end his playing career.

Having decided to move to the Lariani to get involved in a fascinating project, the ex-France international accepted to stay at the club in a different role following his retirement, with Como announcing in October that he would focus on ‘youth development, education and product innovation’.

Como announce signing of Raphael Varane on free transfer.

Varane praises Como’s ‘different vision’: ‘It’s another life’

“Como is a special project,” Varane told The Athletic in an interview.

“It’s a different vision. It’s about ambition but also about values. It’s also a very special setting, a place where I can make a contribution and help develop the club.

“It’s just different; it’s not better or worse, it’s another life.”

The Athletic further detailed the scope of Varane’s role at Como, revealing that he will welcome young players to residential camps as part of projects that combine football with education and culture.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MARCH 09: Como defender Raphael Varane of Manchester United in actio during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Everton FC at Old Trafford on March 09, 2024 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

“I like to build projects that have a vision, a strategy to build innovative things,” Varane continued.

“It’s this innovative side that I like. We want to create something where they (young people) can really understand how to progress and give them a unique experience that will leave a mark on them as players, but also as people.

“Passing on certain values that will serve them well whatever happens.”