23 – that's how many minutes Raphael Varane has played this season. He didn't even make his Serie A debut, as the lost match with Sampdoria took place in the Italian Cup. Although he only recently signed a two-year contract with Como, we've just learned that we won't see him on the pitch again.
Raphael Varane Ends Career. And Hits a Painful Heel in Como
Not long ago we reported that Raphael Varane unexpectedly plans to end his career. It was hard to believe, especially since he is only 31 years old, and according to many, this is the best period for any footballer. However, the rumors turned out to be true, as the player himself announced on Instagram.
“They say that all good things must come to an end,” he began, “Incredible emotions, special moments and memories that will last a lifetime. Reflecting on these moments, it is with great pride and a sense of accomplishment that I announce that I am leaving the game we all love,” he said. He added that he would like to play regularly at the highest level, not just maintain himself there.
“Listening to your heart and your instincts takes a lot of courage. Desires and needs are definitely two different things,” he said. Varane stressed that he was happy to have helped Manchester United win the FA Cup at Wembley against arch-rivals City in his last match, appearing to have deliberately omitted August's Coppa Italia clash with Sampdoria.
“I loved fighting for my country and the clubs I played for. From Lens to Real Madrid to Manchester United,” he noted. “Playing at the highest level provides invaluable experiences. It tests your body and mind. The emotions we experience on the pitch you won't find anywhere else. As athletes, we are never satisfied and we never accept success. That's our nature,” he admitted.
Varane has a plan for what he will do after his career ends. Mysterious words
Four Champions League victories, three Spanish championships, four Club World Cup triumphs with Real Madrid and winning the World Cup with the French national team, as well as two cups won with Manchester United – these are just some of the achievements of the player who made his debut in professional football when he was just 17 years old.
“I don't regret anything. I've won more than I could have ever dreamed of. Apart from the accolades and trophies, I'm proud that no matter what, I stuck to the principles of being honest and that I looked for a way to help the team move forward wherever I went,” he explained. Finally, he revealed that he already has a plan for what he will do in his retirement from sports.
“This is how a new life begins off the pitch. I will remain in Como. Only without using cleats. I will be doing something I can't wait to do. Once again, from the bottom of my heart, thank you to everyone I have met along the way for making this journey more special than I could have imagined,” he concluded.
After five league matches, Como is 15th in the Serie A table with five points.