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Former Real Madrid and Manchester United defender Raphael Varane is set for a new role in the sport, following his decision to hang up his boots. The 31-year-old legend joined Serie A club Como in the summer of 2024, signing a two-year deal.
However, after sustaining an injury in August and being left out of their squad, he retired and has opted to continue in a new role.
According to the club's social media accounts, Varane has been appointed as a board member. The former defender's focus at Como will be on youth development, among other aspects.
A statement from the club read:
"Recently retired from professional football, @raphaelvarane will bring his experience and leadership to this new role, marking the next chapter of his career off the pitch. Varane will collaborate with @Osian_Roberts, Como 1907’s Head of Development, and Juliette Bolon, Head of the Education Program, to support the club’s youth development efforts."
"His involvement will benefit not only the players but also the broader community through educational initiatives. By integrating academic, leadership, and vocational training into the youth programs, Varane aims to help young athletes prepare for life beyond football."
Raphael Varane recently spoke about his transition from player to a member of the board room, saying (via New York Times):
“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.”
He added:
“This new phase of my career feels like a second birth, not an ending. I’m not saying goodbye to football. Joining the Como 1907 development committee excites me and I look forward to being part of an ambitious project that resonates with my values."
"Together, we will invest in youth development, expand educational opportunities, and innovate product solutions to bring the club’s vision to life.”
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United defender will hope he can find success at the helm of youth affairs in the Serie A club.
Raphael Varane's success at Real Madrid and Manchester United
After starting his career with Lens in Ligue 1, Raphael Varane went on to become a successful defender at Real Madrid, where he spent 10 years. He won LaLiga, the UEFA Super Cup, and the Supercopa de Espana three times each while lifting the UEFA Champions League four times.
The defender also won the Copa del Rey once with Real Madrid while winning the FIFA Club World Cup four times. After moving to Manchester United in 2021, where he spent three seasons, Varn won the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup before leaving on a free transfer in 2024.
With France, Varane won the FIFA World Cup in 2018, while helping Les Bleus reach the final in 2022. He also won the UEFA Nations League in the 2020-21 season.
