Health issues have cut short the football career of French defender Raphael Varane, leading him to retire at the age of 31.
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United player shared the news with his fans on Instagram, where he reflected on the high standards he maintained throughout his career but acknowledged that his body could no longer keep up:
“I set the highest expectations for myself, and I want to leave the game strong rather than just hanging on. It takes great courage to listen to your heart and instincts. There’s a difference between desire and necessity. I’ve fallen and risen countless times, but this time it’s the right moment to stop and hang up my boots, winning the trophy at Wembley in my final match.”
Varane’s last club was Italy’s Como, though injuries prevented him from being registered for the Serie A season. His career also spanned stints at Lens, Real Madrid, and Manchester United.
