Raphaël Varane’s career reads like a dream—World Cup winner, four-time UEFA Champions League champion, and numerous other trophies that many footballers can only aspire to. However, in September 2024, at 31, Varane decided to hang up his boots, marking the end of an illustrious football career that saw him play at the very highest levels of club and international football. His retirement was surprising for many fans, as defenders of his caliber are rare in the modern game.
Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Born on April 25, 1993, in Lille, France, Varane was a product of the Lens youth academy. His calm demeanor, exceptional reading of the game, and technical ability caught the eye of Real Madrid scouts early on. In 2011, at 18 years old, he made the high-profile move to Madrid, one of the most demanding clubs in world football.
At Real Madrid, Varane thrived, often playing alongside the legendary Sergio Ramos. His playing style—defined by composure, pace, and tactical intelligence—made him a cornerstone of Real Madrid’s defense. Over the next decade, he would lift four Champions League titles, three La Liga trophies, and multiple other honors. Varane’s presence in defense was crucial to Real Madrid’s dominance, with him often stepping up in big moments, especially in high-pressure situations, like European finals.
The Pinnacle of International Glory: World Cup 2018
In 2018, Varane reached the zenith of his international career, helping France win the FIFA World Cup™ in Russia. Partnering with Samuel Umtiti in central defense, Varane’s performances were nothing short of outstanding. His ability to stay calm under pressure and make crucial interventions earned him widespread praise. France’s success in the tournament was largely built on their solid defense, with Varane playing every minute of the knockout stages. His leadership and defensive acumen were key in the 1-0 victory over Belgium in the semi-finals, and eventually in the 4-2 triumph over Croatia in the final.
Varane’s contribution to the national team was immense, and by the time he retired from international football in February 2023—shortly after France’s thrilling defeat to Argentina in the 2022 FIFA World Cup final—he had earned 93 caps for Les Bleus.
Transition to Manchester United and Como
In 2021, after a decade at Real Madrid, Varane took on a new challenge in the Premier League, signing with Manchester United. Despite injuries limiting his appearances, he continued to show his class. In his first season, Varane helped United win the EFL Cup, followed by an FA Cup victory. Though United was in a period of transition, his leadership and experience were invaluable to the team’s defensive structure.
In July 2024, Varane joined Italian side Como, a newly promoted Serie A team, coached by his former French teammate and fellow World Cup winner, Cesc Fabregas. However, fate intervened, as a knee injury allowed Varane to make only one competitive appearance for the club before he made the difficult decision to retire from professional football in September.
Varane’s Legacy: Underappreciated or Overrated?
Varane’s decision to retire has sparked debates among football fans: Has he truly achieved enough, or was he perhaps overrated? These questions can be answered by looking at his immense contribution to every team he played for.
While Varane’s style wasn’t flashy, it was highly effective. Unlike other defenders known for aggressive tackles or last-ditch interventions, Varane excelled at reading the game and positioning himself to neutralize threats before they escalated. He relied on his intelligence and awareness, often making defending look easy. His pace and ability to play out from the back made him a perfect modern-day center-back.
Some critics argue that Varane was shielded by world-class teammates like Ramos, Luka Modric, and Toni Kroos at Real Madrid or by the collective strength of the French national team. However, those who closely followed his career know that Varane’s consistent performances at the top level for over a decade are evidence of his elite abilities. It’s easy to be overshadowed by more vocal or flamboyant players, but Varane’s understated brilliance was the backbone of his teams’ successes.
Accolades and Achievements
When you look at Varane’s career, the sheer volume of silverware is astounding. Here’s a rundown of what he achieved during his career:
- FIFA World Cup™ winner (2018)
- 4x UEFA Champions League winner (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018)
- 4x FIFA Club World Cup winner
- 3x La Liga winner
- 3x UEFA Super Cup winner
- Nations League winner (2021)
- FA Cup winner (2023)
- Copa del Rey winner
- Spanish Super Cup winner
- Carabao Cup winner (2023)
These honors alone place Varane among the most decorated defenders in modern football. The argument that he hasn’t achieved enough for himself is unfounded—few players in the history of the game can boast such a glittering array of trophies.
Could He Have Given More?
At 31, many defenders are still in their prime. Players like Thiago Silva and Giorgio Chiellini have continued to play into their late 30s, but Varane’s recurring injuries, particularly his knee issue, have influenced his decision. It’s not that he couldn’t have continued, but at this stage of his career, with multiple trophies already in the bag and his body no longer at peak condition, Varane seems to have chosen the path of preserving his health rather than pushing himself further and risking more severe damage.
Final Thoughts
Raphaël Varane’s retirement marks the end of an era for one of football’s most quietly effective defenders. While not the most vocal or flamboyant, his impact was undeniable. He won nearly everything there was to win at both the club and international levels, and his intelligence on the field will be remembered by those who understand the subtle art of defending.
Was he underrated? Perhaps by those who prefer the blood-and-thunder style of defending. But to those who appreciate the finer details of football—timing, positioning, reading the game—Varane was one of the best of his generation. His career is a testament to the idea that defenders don’t need to be flashy to be world-class.