Raphael Varane retires from International Football

France Defender Raphael Varane announces his retirement from International Football. He ended his 10 years of a memorable career with France International Football. 29 years old Legendary Defender, Varane has proved himself again & again at the top level of football.

"Representing our beautiful country for a decade has been one of the greatest honours of my life," Varane said in a statement.

"I've been thinking about it for several months and I decided that it was the right time for me to retire from international football."

The Manchester United defender helped France to win the World Cup in 2018. France also reached the final of the World Cup in 2022, where Varane was a key part of the team. Varane has 93 caps after making his debut in 2013. He helped Didier Deschamps's side win the UEFA Nations League in the 2020-21 season.

Varane's decision comes just weeks after France's World Cup-winning goalkeeper and captain, Hugo Lloris, announced his retirement from international football aged 36.

France Manager Didier Deschamps stated, "Raphael called me a few days ago to explain that he wanted to end his international career. He's an intelligent boy who knows how to take the time to think about it and weigh up the pros and cons before deciding"

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"Raphael believes he has reached the end of his adventure with the French team. I've been in a similar situation to him, I understand his arguments and respect his decision.

"As our paths separate, I wanted to salute his honesty, his unfailing commitment to the blue jersey. Raphael has played a central role on and off the field for the past decade."

Varane has struggled with injury in recent seasons and his retirement from international football allows him to prioritize Manchester United. The decision will also allow him to spend more time with his family and his two young children.