International defender Raphaël Varane has decided to end his professional career at the age of 31. He announced this in a long message on Instagram, this Wednesday, September 25.
At 31, Raphaël Varane says stop. He leaves behind a slew of titles (1 World Cup, 4 Champions Leagues and 3 Liga titles) and a slew of injuries. It was a final knee problem, which occurred with his new club Como (Italy) last August, that convinced the former Lens player to stop everything.
“Throughout my career, I have overcome many challenges. I have grown. Almost all of it was supposed to be impossible. Incredible emotions, special moments and memories that will last a lifetime. Looking back on these moments, it is with immense pride and a sense of accomplishment that I announce my retirement from the game we all love.”he wrote in a long message on Instagram.
“A new life begins off the field”
“I want to come out strong, not just hang on to the game. It takes a lot of courage to listen to your heart and your instincts. Wants and needs are two different things. I’ve fallen and risen a thousand times and this time, it’s time to stop and hang up my boots.”he continues.
What’s next? “A new life begins off the pitch. I will stay with Como. Just without using my cleats. Something I look forward to sharing more about soon”explains Varane.
The central defender, trained at Lens but who became a world leader at Real Madrid, then at Manchester United, has one of the finest French records, and has 93 caps with the Blues.
