Here is the message from French champion Raphael Varane – who was pursued for a long time in the summer market by Como, which eventually brought him to the shores of Lake Como – announcing his retirement from professional football. A remarkable career filled with many successes, and he will now continue his collaboration with the club:
“It is said that all beautiful things must come to an end sooner or later. Throughout my career, I have faced many challenges, seizing opportunity after opportunity, and almost all seemed impossible. Incredible emotions, special moments, and memories that will last a lifetime. Reflecting on these moments, it is with immense pride and a sense of fulfillment that I announce my retirement from the game we all love.
I hold myself to the highest standards; I want to leave the stage without clinging desperately to the game. It takes a great deal of courage to listen to your heart and your instinct. Desire and necessity are two different things. I have fallen and gotten back up a thousand times, and this time it has come to an end for me, hanging up my boots, with my last match won with a trophy at Wembley.
I have loved fighting for myself, for my clubs, for my country, for my teammates, and for the fans of every team I have played for. From Lens, to Madrid, to Manchester, and playing for our national team. I have defended every jersey with all my might and loved every minute of the journey. Playing at the highest level is an exhilarating experience. It tests every level of the body and mind. The emotions we feel cannot be found anywhere else. As athletes, we are never satisfied; we never accept success. That’s our nature, and it’s what fuels us.”
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I have no regrets, I wouldn’t change a thing. I have won more than I could have ever dreamed, but beyond the accolades and trophies, I am proud to have adhered to my principles of honesty and to have tried to leave the world better than I found it. I hope I have made you all proud. And so, a new life begins outside the field. I will remain in Como. Just without wearing the boots and shin guards. I can’t wait to share more about this soon.
For now, to the supporters of every club I have played for, to my teammates, coaches and staff… from the bottom of my heart, thank you for making this journey more special than my wildest dreams could have ever anticipated.
Thank you, football.
With affection, Rapha ❤️
As mentioned, Como pursued Varane for a long time. He arrived this summer at Lake Como with much enthusiasm and a desire to prove himself. To try to bring his vast experience here. But his adventure on the field lasted just 19 minutes into the first official match of the season in Genoa (Coppa Italia against Sampdoria): just 19 minutes before leaving the pitch due to an injury that proved decisive in his decision to retire. A knee injury that led the French superstar to say enough with the jersey and shorts to pursue other projects on the Lake…