Raphael Varane surprisingly announces his retirement from football

Raphael Varane has confirmed his retirement from football at the age of 31.

The world champion recently moved from Manchester United to Serie A newcomers Como on a free transfer.

However, he has been plagued by injuries in the last few years of his career and the former Real Madrid and Lens defender has now decided to end his career, announcing his retirement on Instagram on Wednesday morning.

“They say all good things come to an end,” Varane began.

“In my career I have accepted many challenges and faced every challenge even though almost everything seemed impossible. Incredible emotions, special moments and memories that last a lifetime. When I think back to these moments, I feel very proud and fulfilled as I announce my retirement from the game we all love.

“I set the highest standards for myself, I want to leave strong and not just hold on to the game. It takes a huge amount of courage to listen to your heart and instinct. Desire and need are two different things. I have fallen and got up a thousand times and this time the moment has come to stop and hang up my football boots because my last game will be to win a trophy at Wembley.

“I have loved fighting for myself, my clubs, my country, my teammates and the fans of every team I have played for. From Lens to Madrid to Manchester and for our national team. I have defended every badge with everything I have and enjoyed every minute of this journey. Playing at the highest level is an exhilarating experience. It challenges your body and your mind to every level. The emotions we experience you cannot find anywhere else. As athletes, we are never satisfied and we never accept success. It is in our nature and it is what drives us.

“I have no regrets, I wouldn't change anything. I have won more than I could have ever dreamed of, but aside from the awards and trophies, I am proud that no matter what, I have stayed true to my principles of honesty and tried to leave each place better than I found it. I hope I have made you all proud.

“And so begins a new life off the pitch. I will stay at Como. But without my boots and shin pads. I look forward to telling you more about it soon.

“Now I would like to thank the fans of all the clubs I have played for, my teammates, coaches and staff from the bottom of my heart for making this journey something very special, something I could not have imagined in my wildest dreams.

“Thank you, football. Love, Rapha.”