Raphael Varane, multi-time champion and emblem of several generations of footballers, has decided to retire, leaving his former teammates and fans in shock. He made the announcement via his social media channels on Wednesday morning. For the central defender, who played for four clubs (Lens, Real Madrid, Manchester United and Como), he shared an emotional farewell message in which he said: “It takes a great deal of courage to listen to your heart and your instinct. Desire and needs are two different things. I have fallen down and got up a thousand times, but this time, it’s time to stop and hang up my boots, with my last game winning a trophy at Wembley,” the French star wrote.

NUMBERS

Despite retiring at the age of 31, Varane has established himself as one of France’s best defenders. Over the course of his career, he won 21 collective titles and was awarded nine individual honours, including inclusion in the 2018 Champions League Ideal Team, the 2018 World Cup All-Star Team and the 2018 FIFA/FIFPro World XI.

Varane’s extensive list of honours includes the 2018 World Cup and the 2021 Nations League with France. With Real Madrid, he won every possible trophy, both at national and international level, including 4 European Cups.

Considered one of the best defenders in the world, Varane also excelled in attacking duties. He ended his career with 21 goals in 489 appearances at club level, while for France he scored 5 goals in 71 games.

HE IS AS GOOD AS OUT OF BOOTS AND SHIN PADS

Raphael Varane concluded his message on social media with a few words that foreshadowed his future: “A new life away from the pitch is beginning. I will stay in Como (Italy), but without the boots and shin pads. I’m excited to share what’s to come.”