Knee Injury Forces World Cup Winner Varane Into Early Retirement At 31
Former France, Real Madrid and Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has announced his retirement from football at the age of 31.
The announcement comes as a shock to the football world considering Varane joined Serie A new boys Como just two months ago.
But the 2018 World Cup winner, suffered a knee injury on his debut for Como in the Coppa Italia last month and has not recovered.
Varane left Manchester United after three years this summer, having spent a decade with Real Madrid, where he won three La Liga titles and the UEFA Champions League four times.
He wrote in an Instagram post: "They say all good things must come to an end.
"In my career I have taken on many challenges, rose to occasion after occasion, almost all of it was supposed to be impossible.
"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 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 I have stuck to my principles of being sincere and have tried to leave everywhere better than I found it.
"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."
