Virgil van Dijk Honors Raphael Varane as the French Defender Calls Time on Illustrious Career
Virgil van Dijk has paid tribute to Raphael Varane following the announcement of the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star’s retirement from professional football. Varane, aged just 31, made the difficult decision to hang up his boots after suffering a severe knee injury while playing for his new club, Como, in Italy’s Serie A.
Varane’s final injury came during a Coppa Italia match against Sampdoria, a debut that turned bittersweet as he was forced off the pitch. His condition ultimately led to his removal from Como’s squad list for the upcoming league season, a development that marked the end of his illustrious career. While injuries have been a recurring theme in the Frenchman’s recent years, especially during his stint at Manchester United, this latest blow proved to be the final straw.
The World Cup-winning defender, who was a towering presence in some of football’s grandest stages, shared the emotional news of his retirement through an Instagram post. Reflecting on his journey, Varane expressed gratitude to the clubs, teammates, and supporters who had played a part in his success. “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,” Varane wrote in his farewell post.
Varane’s departure from the sport prompted an outpouring of support and well-wishes from both former teammates and rivals. Among them, Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk, a fellow world-class center-back, was quick to extend his admiration. In the comments section of Varane’s post, Van Dijk left a simple yet respectful tribute, using the clapping hands emoji to acknowledge Varane’s incredible career. The two defenders faced each other multiple times, including the memorable 2018 Champions League final, where Varane’s Real Madrid emerged victorious against Van Dijk’s Liverpool with a 3-1 win.
Other notable figures also paid their respects, including Ibrahima Konate, Varane’s compatriot, who played alongside him in the French national team. Konate shared multiple heart emojis, showing the depth of respect and affection many of his peers held for the retiring star.
Varane’s career is one that will be remembered for its remarkable achievements. He first made a name for himself as a teenager at Real Madrid after moving from French club Lens in 2011. During his decade-long tenure at the Santiago Bernabeu, Varane formed a formidable defensive partnership with Sergio Ramos. Together, they were instrumental in Madrid’s dominance of European football, with Varane lifting the Champions League trophy four times, along with three La Liga titles and a Copa del Rey.
On the international stage, Varane also reached the pinnacle of football, playing a crucial role in France’s 2018 World Cup victory. His composure, intelligence, and leadership at the heart of defense made him one of the most respected and successful defenders of his generation.
In 2021, Varane made the move to Manchester United, where he continued to showcase his abilities but was plagued by injuries that hampered his consistency. Despite these challenges, he still contributed to United’s successes, helping the team win both the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup during his time at Old Trafford.
While his career was cut short by injury, Raphael Varane leaves behind a legacy that few can match, and tributes like Virgil van Dijk’s serve as a testament to the impact he had not just on his teams, but on the football world as a whole.
Virgil van Dijk Honors Raphael Varane as the French Defender Calls Time on Illustrious Career