Former Real Madrid and Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has retired from professional football at the age of 31.
Varane announced his retirement in a post on Instagram.
Varane joined Italian side Como on a free transfer in July but suffered a knee injury on his debut against Sampdoria last month.
“I hold myself to the highest standard, I want to go out strong, not just holding on to the game,” he wrote on Instagram. “It takes a big dose of courage to listen to your heart and your instinct.
“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 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.”
On his future plans, Varane added: “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.”
Varane began his career at French side Lens but spent just one season in the first team before joining Real Madrid in 2011.
At Madrid where he spent 10 years career he won 18 trophies – including three La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues.
In the summer of 2021 Varane moved to Old Trafford for an initial £34m, going on to make 95 appearances in all competitions despite struggling with injuries.
He won the Carabao Cup in 2022 and his final appearance for the club was an FA Cup final victory over rivals Manchester City at Wembley in May.
He made his France debut in 2013 and earned 93 caps, winning the World Cup in 2018, the Nations League in 2021 and reaching the World Cup final again in 2022.
In April, Varane said he had “damaged his body”because of the continued impact of heading the ball, and once finished a France World Cup game in 2014 on “autopilot” after playing on with concussion.
