Raphael Varane shocked the football world on Wednesday morning by announcing his retirement from football at the age of 31.
The central defender joined Como, who are managed by Cesc Fabregas, on free transfer in the summer after being released by Manchester United.
Varane made just one appearance for the Serie A outfit, during which he sustained an knee injury. The club subsequently excluded him from their squad list at the end of August and, less than a month later, he has decided to call it a day altogether.
The former France international took to Instagram to explain that, after a couple of injury plagued seasons, he feels like he can no longer play to the same high standards that typified his career. He will remain with Como in a non-playing role, possibly as part of the coaching staff.
Varane, who won the World Cup in 2018, lifted the Champions League on four occasions with Real Madrid before joining Man United two years ago. He helped the Red Devils win the League Cup in his first season and the FA Cup in his final game for the club in May.
