COMO (ITALPRESS) – Raphael Varane has announced his retirement. The defender, world champion in 2018 with France, has decided to leave soccer at just 31 years old. He had signed a two-year contract with Cesc Fabregas’ Como at the end of July, but his adventure with the Larians lasted little more than 20 minutes when an injury in the Coppa Italia match against Sampdoria forced him to leave the field. Today the official announcement of his decision on Instagram. “They say that all good things must come to an end. In my career I have faced many challenges, experienced incredible emotions, special moments and memories that will last a lifetime. Reflecting on these moments, it is with immense pride and satisfaction that I announce my retirement from the game we all love,” writes the former Lens, Real Madrid and Manchester United defender. A decision that comes after the physical problems that have affected him in the last period and despite the new adventure that has just begun with Como. “I want to come out strong, not just hang on to the game. It takes a great deal of courage to listen to one’s heart and instinct. Desire and needs are two different things. I’ve fallen and gotten back up a thousand times, but this time it’s time to stop and hang up my shoes, with the last game won and played at Wembley,” he writes referring to the FA Cup won by his Manchester United against City’s cousins. “I loved fighting for myself, for my clubs, for my country, for my teammates and for the fans of every team I played for. From Lens to Madrid and Manchester, I played for France, defended every team with everything I hadod within and loved every minute of my journey in soccer. Playing at the highest level is an exciting experience. It challenges every level of the body and mind. The emotions we experience you won’t find anywhere else. As athletes we never settle, that 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 dreamed of, but beyond the accolades and trophies, I am proud to have stuck to my principles. I hope I have made you all proud. “He leaves the world of football, but not Como. “Now a new life begins off the field. I will stay with Como, not with my shoes and legs, but I will start something that I look forward to sharing more soon. For now, to the fans of every club I played for, to my teammates, to the coaches and their staffs … from the bottom of my heart I say thank you for making this journey more special than my wildest dreams could have imagined. Thank you football. With love Rapha,” closes the long letter from the now former French champion. In addition to the World Cup he won, with France Varane also won a Nations League, with Real he won 3 championships, 3 Spanish Super Cups, 1 Spanish Cup, four Champions Leagues, 4 Club World Cups, 3 European Super Cups, while with Manchester United he won a League Cup and an FA Cup.- Image Photo -(ITALPRESS).
