Former Man United and Real Madrid star tows new career path after retirement from active football

Former Manchester United and Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane has been appointed as a new board member for Serie A club Como 1907, Soccernet.football reports.

Varane’s appointment comes after he recently retired from professional football in September. The Frenchman decided to hang his boots after an injury-plagued stint which saw him manage just 23 minutes for the newly promoted club.

Como announced the former defender’s appointment on Saturday through a statement released on its official website. Accepting the appointment, the 31-year-old described the new office as one that marked a new phase in his football career.

“Being a top-level sportsman comes with joy, sacrifice, and the constant drive to push beyond limits. Throughout my career, I’ve been motivated by a desire to improve and strive for excellence.

“Transitioning from the field to the boardroom isn’t the end of my football journey; it’s a new beginning that I’m looking forward to. Joining the board of Como allows me to continue contributing to the sport while shaping its future.

“This new phase of my career feels like a second birth, not an ending. I’m not saying goodbye to football.

“Joining the Como 1907 Development Committee excites me, and I look forward to being part of an ambitious project that resonates with my values.

“Together, we will invest in youth development, expand educational opportunities, and innovate product solutions to bring the club’s vision to life.”

Varane began his career at hometown club Lens in France before moving to Real Madrid in 2011, where he won 18 trophies, including three La Liga titles and four Champions League titles.

He later joined United, making 95 appearances over three seasons before departing when his contract expired in June.

The Frenchman also enjoyed a highly successful international career, winning the World Cup in 2018 and the Nations League three years later, earning 93 caps for France.