France coach Didier Deschamps paid tribute to Raphael Varane today after the former Real Madrid and Manchester United defender announced his retirement from playing at Como.
Deschamps said in a statement: “Raphaël has chosen to end his career. Knowing him, I know that this decision, always difficult, is the result of careful consideration. It is therefore a fair decision, which we must respect. Raphaël had all the qualities to achieve the magnificent career he had.”
Deschamps thanks Varane
“For ten years, the French team was a second family and he will always be welcome there. Arriving young, he immediately established himself as a leader on the field, but also off it: his opinion was listened to and respected. I remember the image of a player involved with others and with the team. In particular, he had a perfect bond with the captain, Hugo Lloris.”he added.
Deschamps then concluded by recalling that: “Raphaël played an important role in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. In the national team, but in general wherever he went, he always left the memory of a great professional. For that and for everything else, I want to thank him from the bottom of my heart, I wish him to be happy in the new challenges he will choose. Perhaps he will be able to devote himself to his family, which means a lot to him.”
Varane has just hung up his boots. However, with the French team, he has not played for 18 months. He had withdrawn just after the World Cup in Qatar. His last match with the Blues, in the final against Argentina, was not his best on the international stage.
