COMO, Italy (AP) – Former French national team and Real Madrid center back Raphael Varane announced his retirement on Wednesday, ending a career that included a World Cup title and a large number of club trophies.

The 31-year-old Varane signed with Serie A newcomers Como in July, but injured his knee in his only appearance for the club – an Italian Cup match against Sampdoria last month.

“In my career, I have accepted many challenges and faced every challenge. Almost all of them were considered impossible.” Varane wrote on Instagram“Looking back on those moments, I feel very proud and accomplished as I announce my retirement from the game we all love.”

Varane was arguably the tournament’s standout defender as France won the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where he scored the most important of his five international goals with a header against Uruguay in the quarter-finals.

Varane was an elegant defender with a lot of ball play and excellent positional sense thanks to his quick reading of the game. Together with Samuel Umtiti, he formed a solid central defender duo in this tournament.

He also helped Madrid to four Champions League titles and three Spanish league titles.

He moved to Manchester United in 2021, but only made 95 appearances in his three seasons in England – mainly due to injuries.

Varane began his career at Lens.

“From Lens to Madrid to Manchester and then playing for our national team. I defended each badge with everything I have and enjoyed every minute of the journey,” said Varane. “I don’t regret anything, I wouldn’t change anything. I’ve won more than I could have ever dreamed of.”

Varane had already Resignation from the French national teama few months after the defeat in the 2022 World Cup final against Argentina. During this game, his 93rd for Les Bleus since his debut in 2013, he fell to the ground exhausted deep in extra time.

Varane said he would stay in Como: “Just without using my boots and shin pads. I look forward to telling you more about it soon.”

Como won its first Serie A victory in more than 21 years, as coach Cesc Fabregas’ team won 3-2 at Atalanta on Tuesday. ___

AP Football: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer