The world champion and 4-time Champions League winner unexpectedly ended his career at the age of 31

French footballer Raphaël Varane has announced the end of his professional career at the age of 31. The central defender, who recently shone for Real Madrid, Manchester United, and his country's national team, made a tough decision due to persistent injuries.

Varane wrote about this on his Instagram page. The now-former footballer noted that the decision to retire as a player was not easy for him. In addition, Rafael added that he wanted to do more than just be listed in the Italian Como, which he joined this summer.

"I've been up and down a thousand times, and this time it was time to stop and hang up my boots on the final game, winning the trophy at Wembley (FA Cup with Manchester United). Playing at the highest level is an exhilarating experience. It tests every level of your body and your mind. You won't find the emotions we experience anywhere else. Thank you, football," Varane wrote.

The Frenchman won 22 trophies in his career. With Real Madrid, he won the Champions League and the Club World Cup four times, the Spanish League three times, and the UEFA Super Cup. With United, he won two cup trophies, and wearing the French national team shirt, he became the 2018 World Cup champion, 2022 World Cup vice-champion, and winner of the League of Nations.

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