Raphaël Varane officially bowed out this Wednesday, September 25. The French defender, who had already announced his international retirement after the 2022 World Cup final between France and Argentina (3-3, 4-2 draw), has this time put a definitive end to his career.
The former Real Madrid stalwart played his final match for Como 1907, in a 32nd round of the Italian Cup against Sampdoria Genoa, on August 11. The 2018 world champion, who had joined the Lariani this summer after leaving Manchester United, was unfortunately only able to stay on the pitch for 23 minutes, succumbing to a knee injury. These same physical problems, which had already greatly affected him during his three seasons at Old Trafford, finally pushed him to hang up his boots.
“There is no French player who has inspired as much respect in me”
Despite this unexpected end, Varane can boast an exceptional track record. With 21 collective titles, including 3 Liga, 4 Champions League and a World Cup, the Lille player is among the most decorated players in French football. He is part of a circle that includes Karim Benzema (33 titles), Kingsley Coman (27 titles), Franck Ribéry (23 titles), Bixente Lizarazu (22 titles), Blaise Matuidi and Patrice Évra (21 titles each).
While many central defenders have left their mark on the history of Les Bleus, such as Lilian Thuram, Laurent Blanc and Marcel Desailly from the 98 generation, some observers believe that Varane is simply the best to have occupied this position under the jersey bearing the rooster. In any case, this is the clear opinion of journalist Grégory Schneider, who paid tribute to the former French rock on social media.
“Besides the fact that Varane was the greatest defender in the history of the Blues, without discussion, there is no French player who has inspired as much respect in me since I have been following the Blues (2004). Honest, not playing with anyone, responsible… Immense class”wrote the head of the Sports department to “Libération”. Comments that are sure to spark debate on the web.
