Image via Reuters
Raphael Varane, a center back for Manchester United and France, has announced his retirement from global competition.
After making his debut in 2013, the 29-year-old, who helped his team win the World Cup in 2018, scored five goals in 93 matches.
His final appearance came in the 2022 World Cup final, where Argentina defeated France on penalties.
“Representing our great country for a decade has been one of the greatest honours of my life,” said Varane.
“Every time I wore this very special blue jersey I felt immense pride. The duty to give it all, play my heart out and win every time we put on the field.
“I’ve been contemplating this for several months and deciding it’s the right time for me to retire internationally.”
Varane is the most recent member of Les Bleus to announce his retirement following the World Cup. He joined United from Real Madrid in August 2021.
Hugo Lloris, the goalkeeper and captain for Tottenham, retired in January, three weeks after the final.