Former Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has made a surprise career move after his shock retirement from football.
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Varane left Man Utd for ComoAnnounced sudden retirementHas taken up board role at Serie A sideFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
The 31-year-old bid farewell to United at the end of last season, before joining Serie A new boys Como on a two-year deal in late July. However, the former Real Madrid star announced his sudden retirement from football last month following a troublesome knee injury. Now, the Italian team have confirmed the Frenchman will become a club board member, advising on youth development, education, and product innovation – something he described as a "new beginning".
AdvertisementGetty Images EntertainmentWHAT RAPHAEL VARANE SAID
Varane, who played just once for Como, told the club's website: “Being a top-level sportsman comes with joy, sacrifice, and the constant drive to push beyond limits. Throughout my career, I’ve been motivated by a desire to improve and strive for excellence. Transitioning from the field to the boardroom isn’t the end of my football journey; it’s a new beginning that I’m looking forward to. Joining the board of Como allows me to continue contributing to the sport while shaping its future.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
The former France international enjoyed a glittering career, winning a World Cup with France in 2018, a host of Champions League titles with Real Madrid, and a number of other trophies along the way. Unfortunately for him, his career was cut short but now he can look forward to a new chapter in his life. Sometimes footballers struggle to deal with retirement so finding a role so soon after hanging up his boots can be seen as a big positive.
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT?
Varane may be in the stands at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia for Como's Serie A clash at home to Parma on Saturday. Cesc Fabregas' side, who got promoted out of Serie B last season, currently sit 14th in the division with eight points from seven games.
