Former Manchester United, Real Madrid and France star Raphael Varane has  announced his retirement from football.

Varane, 31, has struggled to stay fit in recent years and suffered a serious knee injury just 20 minutes into his debut for Como last month.

Varane was subsequently left out of Como's Serie A squad given he's expected to be sidelined for an extended period of time.

As a result, Le Parisien had previously reported that the 31-year-old was considering a shock retirement.

And now, Varane has called time on his glittering career, revealing the decision via a post on his Instagram account on Wednesday morning.

Alongside a series of photos from his career, Varane wrote in a statement: 'They say all good things must come to an end.

'In my career I have taken on many challenges, rose to occasion after occasion, almost all of it was supposed to be impossible. Incredible emotions, special moments and memories that will last a lifetime. Reflecting on these moments, it is with immense pride and a feeling of fulfillment that I am announcing my retirement from the game that we all love.

'I hold myself to the highest standard, I want to go out strong, not just holding on to the game. It takes a big dose of courage to listen to your heart and your instinct. Desire and needs are two different things. I have fallen and risen a thousand times, and this time, it’s the moment to stop and hang my boots up with my final game winning a trophy at Wembley.

'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. The game at the highest level is a thrilling experience. It tests every level of your body and your mind. The emotions we experience you cannot find anywhere else. As athletes, we are never satisfied, never accepting of success. It is our nature and what fuels us.

'I have no regrets, I wouldn’t change a thing. I have won more than I could have even dreamed of, but beyond the accolades and trophies, I am proud that no matter what, I have stuck to my principles of being sincere and have tried to leave everywhere better than I found it. I hope I have made you all proud.

'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.

'For now, to the supporters of every club I played for, to my teammates, coaches and staff… from the bottom of my heart, thank you for making this journey more special than my wildest dreams could ever foresee.

'Thank you, football. With love, Rapha.'

Several of Varane's former team-mates and clubs were quick to pay tribute to the Frenchman, while the France national team also passed on their well-wishes.

Posting on X, they said: 'Damn dust in the eye. Thanks for the work Raph. We all wish you a good retirement. #ProudtobeBlue.'  

The World Cup winner had joined Como  as a free agent over the summer after his contract with Manchester United expired at the end of last season.

He made the move to Italy on a two-year deal - where he linked up with Cesc Fabregas' side - and joined fellow former Premier League stars Pepe Reina and Alberto Moreno in Como's squad.

But now, Varane has terminated his contract with the Serie A outfit as he prepares for the next chapter of his life. 

Varane, who came through the youth ranks at Lens, played at the top level for 14 years.

After one season in the first team with the Ligue 1 side, the central defender joined Real Madrid in 2011 aged 18. 

He went on to make 360 appearances for the Spanish giants, winning three La Liga titles, four Champions Leagues and a Copa del Rey, among several other trophies over a decade.  

The Frenchman moved to United in 2021 and displayed his quality despite being hampered by injuries during his three years at Old Trafford, racking up 95 appearances for the Red Devils.

His last game in a United shirt saw him lift the FA Cup as he started the 2-1 victory over Man City at Wembley in May, while he also won the Carabao Cup with the club.

Varane also shone for France in their 2018 World Cup triumph, with the defender earning 93 caps in total for Les Bleus before he retired from international duty at the age of 29 in February 2023.