Former Manchester United and Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane has announced his retirement from football after suffering a serious knee injury at the age of 31.

Varane announced this in an Instagram post on Wednesday.

The defender joined Serie A club Como this summer having left United at the end of last season after his contract expired.

He signed an initial two-year deal but suffered a serious knee injury just 23 minutes into his debut against Sampdoria in the Coppa Italia.

Later in August the France international was removed from the club’s squad list for the league season, and the injury has now forced him to call time on his illustrious career.

Varane stated: “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. Incredible emotions, special moments and memories that will last a lifetime. Reflecting on these moments, it is with immense pride and a feeling of fulfillment 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. 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.

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“I have loved fighting for myself, my clubs, my country, my teammates and the supporters of every team I have played for. From Lens to Madrid to Manchester, and playing for our national team. I have defended every badge with everything I have, and loved every minute of the journey.

“The game at the highest level is a thrilling experience. It tests every level of your body and your mind. The emotions we experience you cannot find anywhere else. As athletes, we are never satisfied, never accepting of success. It is our nature and what fuels us.

“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.

“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.

“For now, to the supporters of every club I played for, to my teammates, coaches and staff… from the bottom of my heart, thank you for making this journey more special than my wildest dreams could ever foresee.

“Thank you, football. With love, Rapha ❤️”

Varane started his career at French side Lens but left after just one season in the first team to join Real Madrid in 2011.

He enjoyed a decorated 10-year career in the Spanish capital, winning 18 trophies – including three LaLiga titles and four Champions League trophies.

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The centre-back moved to Old Trafford in the summer of 2021 for a fee believed to be around £41 million including add-ons – going on to make 95 appearances in all competitions.

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 2024.

In all, Varane made 480 club appearances across a 14-year career and earned 93 caps for France en route to lifting the 2018 World Cup.

The Star