Raphael Varane has announced his retirement from football aged 31 after suffering a serious knee injury.
The defender joined Serie A club Como this summer having left Manchester United at the end of last season after his contract expired.
He signed an initial two-year deal but suffered a serious knee injury just 23 minutes into his debut against Sampdoria in the Coppa Italia.
Later in August the France international was removed from the club's squad list for the league season, and the injury has now forced him to call time on his illustrious career.
The defender moved to Old Trafford in the summer 2021 for an initial £34m, going on to make 95 appearances in all competitions despite struggling with injuries.
He won the Carabao Cup in 2022 and his final appearance for the club was an FA Cup final victory over rivals Manchester City at Wembley in May.
"They say all good things must come to an end," Varane wrote in a lengthy Instagram message which revealed his plans for the future.
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," he said.
"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."
On his future plans, Varane added: "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."
by HealthyWar7942