RAPHAEL VARANE has already confirmed his new job after retiring from football at the age of just 31.
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United centre-back announced on Wednesday he was hanging up his boots just two months after joining Serie A side Como on a free transfer.
He suffered an injury after making his debut for the Italian club and swiftly decided to call it a day.
And in his emotional retirement statement he revealed he will remain at Como in a yet unspecified position.
He said: “And so, 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.”
Varane could become a part of Como’s coaching staff – which is led by manager Cesc Fabregas following his appointment in the summer.
Last season, the club were promoted for the third time in five years as they reached the top flight after more than two decades away.
They picked up their first win of the campaign in a 3-2 victory away at Atalanta on Tuesday.
And Varane’s experience could be a valuable asset to Fabregas’ side.
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He made 360 appearances for Real Madrid during his 10-year spell with the Spanish giants, winning three LaLiga titles and four Champions Leagues.
Varane joined Man Utd for £42million in 2021 as a World Cup winner having triumphed with France in 2018.
The defender, who earned 93 caps for his country, played 95 games for the Red Devils, winning the Carabao Cup and FA Cup.
His full retirement statement read: “They say all good things must come to an end.
“In my career I have taken on many challenges, rose to occasion after occasion, almost all of it was supposed to be impossible. Incredible emotions, special moments and memories that will last a lifetime.
“Reflecting on these moments, it is with immense pride and a feeling of fulfilment that I am announcing my retirement from the game that we all love.
“I hold myself to the highest standard, I want to go out strong, not just holding on to the game. It takes a big dose of courage to listen to your heart and your instinct.
“Desire and needs are two different things. 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.
“I have loved fighting for myself, my clubs, my country, my teammates and the supporters of every team I have played for. From Lens to Madrid to Manchester, and playing for our national team. I have defended every badge with everything I have, and loved every minute of the journey.
“The game at the highest level is a thrilling experience. It tests every level of your body and your mind. The emotions we experience you cannot find anywhere else. As athletes, we are never satisfied, never accepting of success. It is our nature and what fuels us.
“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.
“And so, 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.
“And so, 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.
“Thank you, football. With love, Rapha.”
