Former Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has opened up on his summer exit from Old Trafford.

Varane brought his three-year stay at United to an end when his contract expired in June as he walked away from the club for nothing.

The Frenchman, who joined the Red Devils from Real Madrid for £42m in 2021, has admitted he had wanted to stay for a longer period but realised in the final months of last term that it was time to move on.

'At the start of my last season at Manchester United, I was already telling myself that I would have liked to finish there, to extend the adventure [there] a little further,' Varane told L'Equipe. 'It didn't happen and the summer was very eventful.

'With United, I finished with a victory in the FA Cup, but I already knew that the club's project didn't suit me.'

Varane delivered a standout performance in United's shock FA Cup final win over bitter rivals Manchester City at Wembley, as he returned from injury to foil Pep Guardiola's men.

But after a number of fitness setbacks in recent years, and having previously hit out at the congested football calendar, Varane explained that he wanted to reduce his game time and that led him to leave United to join Serie A side Como.

However, his time at the Italian club was cut short as he suffered a knee injury on debut in the Coppa Italia in August.

With a lengthy spell on the sidelines awaiting, Varane opted to retire and revealed he knew straight away that it was time to hang up his boots.

'I was looking for something special, and that's how I found Como,' he added.

'Como was a project that stood out, it wasn't exotic nor financially [rewarding] but humanly it made sense, and it still does, since I'm going to stay by their side.

'I also wanted to play only once a week. After the pre-season, the family was supposed to follow me to Italy, but when I got injured on August 11, I knew right away that it was over. I was sure of myself, because I had anticipated it.'

Varane will not be seen on the pitch again at Como, but announced last month that he is staying with the club.

A statement read: '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.'

Varane did not specify exactly what his new role is, but it could see him work alongside former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas, who manages the club.

Como were promoted to Serie A last season and sit 14th in the table after taking eight points from their opening seven matches.