Varane signed with Italian club Como on a free transfer in July, but a knee injury during his debut against Sampdoria last month forced him to step away from playing.
Despite retiring from the field, Varane has confirmed that he will remain with Como in a non-playing capacity.
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“I hold myself to the highest standard, I want to go out strong, not just holding on to the game,” he wrote on Instagram. “It takes a big dose of courage to listen to your heart and your instinct.”
Varane began his professional career at French club Lens, spending just one season in the first team before making a high-profile move to Real Madrid in 2011.
During his illustrious decade in Madrid, Varane collected 18 major trophies, including three La Liga titles and four Champions League crowns.
In 2021, the defender transferred to Manchester United for an initial £34 million, making 95 appearances across all competitions despite battling injuries. He added the Carabao Cup to his trophy haul in 2022, with his final match being the FA Cup final victory over Manchester City at Wembley in May.
On the international stage, Varane made his France debut in 2013, earning 93 caps. He won the 2018 World Cup, the 2021 Nations League, and reached the World Cup final once again in 2022.
“I have fallen and risen a thousand times, and this time, it’s the moment to stop and hang my boots up with my final game winning a trophy at Wembley,” he said.
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“I have no regrets, I wouldn’t change a thing. I have won more than I could have even dreamed of, but beyond the accolades and trophies, I am proud that no matter what, I have stuck to my principles of being sincere and have tried to leave everywhere better than I found it. I hope I have made you all proud.”
On his future plans, Varane added: “A new life begins off the pitch. I will remain with Como. Just without using my boots and shin pads. Something I am looking forward to sharing more about soon.”
In April, Raphael Varane revealed that repeated heading of the ball had “damaged his body” over the course of his career. He recalled finishing a 2014 World Cup match for France on “autopilot” after suffering a concussion but continuing to play.
Varane has since advocated for greater protection and increased awareness around the risks associated with head injuries in football.
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