Raphael Varane confirms Manchester United exit

French defender Raphael Varane is set leave to Manchester United as his contract with the club comes to an end at the close of the season.

Defender Raphael Varane has announced that he'll leave Manchester United by the end of the season.

He won the Carabao Cup during his time at the club#3SportsGH pic.twitter.com/SqOjH2tliz

— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) May 14, 2024

Having previously clinched three La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies during his illustrious stint with Real Madrid, Varane’s arrival at Manchester United under former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was met with high expectations.

The 31-year-old, who arrived from Real Madrid in July 2021 for a reported initial fee of approximately £34 million, has amassed an impressive 93 appearances during his tenure with the Red Devils.

Varane played a pivotal role in Manchester United’s Carabao Cup triumph in 2023, contributing to the team’s victory over Newcastle United in the final under the guidance of manager Erik ten Hag.

Expressing gratitude for Raphael Varane’s service, Manchester United issued a statement extending their best wishes for his future endeavors.

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The experienced centre-back, who secured a World Cup victory with France in 2018 before retiring from international football in February 2023, has been sidelined due to injury since a 4-3 defeat by Chelsea on April 4th. It remains uncertain whether he will regain fitness for United’s final three matches of the season.

Reflecting on his time at the club, Varane expressed optimism for the future, citing the clear plan and strategy laid out by the new owners. He announced plans to bid farewell to fans during the team’s last home game of the season at Old Trafford, anticipating an emotional occasion.

“To you guys, supporters of Manchester United, it’s been an amazing few years to play for this special club and wearing that shirt,” Varane said.

“The first time I went to Old Trafford as a Man United player, it was insane. The atmosphere was amazing. I fell in love with the club, with the fans.

“You have to play for Man United to understand what that represents. For my kids, it’s home here. It’s going to be a special place for me, for life.

Where does Raphael Varane rank among Manchester United's signings in the last five years?#3SportsGH pic.twitter.com/4e8qXMznpW

— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) May 14, 2024

Varane’s departure from Manchester United marks the end of an era, presenting ambitious teams with an opportunity to acquire the services of a seasoned star who still has much to offer on the football pitch.

The post Raphael Varane confirms Manchester United exit first appeared on 3News.

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