Former Manchester United defender Raphael Varane announced his retirement from football, reflecting on a career filled with special moments, challenges, and achievements. Varane, who won major titles with both Real Madrid and Manchester United, announced his decision to step away from the game at the age of 34, just months after his final appearance in Manchester United’s FA Cup final victory over Manchester City.
Varane shared his thoughts on retirement.
Raphael Varane said “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 fulfilment 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.”
Varane, who made 95 appearances for United, enjoyed a decorated career, especially during his time at Real Madrid, where he won four UEFA Champions Leagues and three La Ligas, among 18 titles. On the international stage, he was pivotal in France’s 2018 World Cup triumph, playing every minute in the tournament.
Reflecting on what could have been, Varane almost joined Manchester United in 2011. Sir Alex Ferguson recalled in his 2015 book “In 2011, I hurtled down on the train from Euston to Lille to sign the young French defender Raphael Varane. David Gill was getting into the finer points of the contract with Lens, Varane’s club, when Zinedine Zidane got wind of this and somehow scooped him up for Real Madrid from under our noses. I don’t think Jose Mourinho, who was managing Real Madrid, had even seen Varane play.”
Varane later spoke about his meeting with Zidane, saying “It was a special moment for me and my family. It’s amazing to meet a person like him at 18. You know, after that, it’s your destiny. Ten years in Madrid and now I’m here.”
After Varane’s retirement, former United defender Rio Ferdinand praised him, writing on social media “He looked too smooth, glided across the pitch and made things look too easy. Pace, speed, anticipation, and ability to intercept was a standout.”
