Varane: Ex-Real Madrid and Man Utd star retires after two months at Como | OneFootball

Como centre-back Raphael Varane has announced his retirement from football only two months after joining Cesc Fabregas’ side.

The ex-France international announced he’d retire from football with an Instagram post on Wednesday morning.

He had joined Como on a free transfer at the end of July, but he sustained an injury only 23 minutes into his competitive debut with the Azzurri in Coppa Italia last month.

“They say all good things must come to an end,” Varane wrote Wednesday morning.

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

“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. 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.

“I have loved fighting for myself, my clubs, my country, my teammates and the supporters of every team I have played for. From Lens to Madrid to Manchester, and playing for our national team. I have defended every badge with everything I have, and loved every minute of the journey. The game at the highest level is a thrilling experience. It tests every level of your body and your mind. The emotions we experience you cannot find anywhere else. As athletes, we are never satisfied, never accepting of success. It is our nature and what fuels us.

“I have no regrets, I wouldn’t change a thing. I have won more than I could have even dreamed of, but beyond the accolades and trophies, I am proud that no matter what, I have stuck to my principles of being sincere and have tried to leave everywhere better than I found it. I hope I have made you all proud.

“And so, a new life begins off the pitch. I will remain with Como. Just without using my boots and shin pads. Something I am looking forward to sharing more about soon.

“For now, to the supporters of every club I played for, to my teammates, coaches and staff… from the bottom of my heart, thank you for making this journey more special than my wildest dreams could ever foresee.

“Thank you, football.”

Como coach Fabregas announced in August that Varane’s return to action was unclear due to the defender’s knee injury in his debut with the club.

The ex-Real Madrid and Manchester United centre-back had been left out of Como’s Serie A squad, and there were reports that Como were considering his contract termination.

The 31-year-old won the Champions League for times at Real Madrid and the 2018 World Cup with France.

He played 360 games at Real Madrid, including 69 under Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti.

Como won their first Serie A game in 21 years last night, beating region rivals Atalanta 3-2 in Bergamo.