MANCHESTER: In a heartfelt and emotional statement, former France defender Raphael Varane announced his retirement from football on Wednesday. The former Manchester United defender says goodbye on his Instagram saying: “I hold myself to the highest standard, I want to be strong, not just hold the game. It takes a lot of courage to listen to your heart and instinct.” In July, the 30-year-old injured his knee on his debut in Como, Italy against Sampdoria. In addition, the France centre-back said he will remain at the club in a non-playing role. Meanwhile, the French professional footballer joined Real Madrid in 2011. He enjoyed a 10-year career at the Spanish club, winning 18 trophies – including three LaLiga titles and four Champions Leagues. Despite several injuries, the defender moved to Old Trafford in 2021 for £34m and made 95 appearances. Before that, 30-year-old Raphael made it to the 2022 Carabao Cup. However, he did eventually feature for the club in the FA Cup final against Manchester City in May, finishing victorious. Given his achievements since his France debut in 2013, Varane has won 93 caps, won the 2018 World Cup, the 2021 Nations League and reached the 2022 World Cup final.
