RAPHAEL VARANE has pinpointed the exact moment that injury wrecked his career.
The Frenchman announced his shock retirement from football in September.
Varane, 31, called time on his career after only one appearance for Italian side Como.
The defender joined the club in the summer on a free transfer after leaving Manchester United.
His time at Old Trafford was blighted by injury, as he missed 219 days due to being on the treatment table.
Varane has now revealed that his appearance for France against Ukraine in 2013 was the moment that affected his career.
He was suffering from inflammation in his right knee but braved through in order to feature.
France won the game 3-0 as they overturned their 2-0 deficit from the first leg in order to qualify for the World Cup in 2014.
He told L’Equipe: “I shouldn’t have played the play-off against Ukraine in 2013.
“After the first leg, my knee wouldn’t let me alone, it was swelling.
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“But France needed me, the coach needed me, and I took the risk.
“That day I risked my career. But I don’t regret it.
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“For France, I would always do it again.”
After the game, the liquid had to be removed from his knee, and he was put on an anaesthetic.
Varane spent three seasons at the Red Devils after joining in a £42million transfer from Real Madrid in 2021.
He made 95 appearances across three seasons and scored two goals.
Varane’s retirement statement in full
“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.”
