Another Real Madrid legend and former teammate of Toni Kroos has joined the German in retirement, formerly announced today.
Real Madrid have a rich history of incredible players. Not only are they the best team in the world currently, but they have been throughout much of history, particularly this century.
It is never nice to see Real Madrid alumni hang up their boots. However, it provides a nice time for fans to reflect and wish their former players well in their new chapter, outside of playing.
In the summer, it was Toni Kroos who announced his retirement. Now, one of his former Real Madrid teammates has followed suit, formerly announcing his retirement from playing today.
Real Madrid legend joins Toni Kroos in retirement
As of today, Raphael Varane has retired from professional football. The France and Real Madrid legend never made an appearance for his new club Como before becoming injured.
Raphael Varane's injury in the summer meant that he could not appear for Como. So much so, he was removed from the squad list for Serie A. Now is the right time for him to retire.
In an official club statement, Real Madrid said: "Raphael Varane will always be in the hearts of all Real Madrid fans as one of the greatest centre-backs in the history of Real Madrid and for always representing the values of our club. Real Madrid would like to wish him and his family the best of luck in this new chapter of his life."
It is true. Raphael Varane is one of the best defenders in Real Madrid history and partnering Sergio Ramos, he never looked out of place.
Real Madrid took a gamble when they signed Raphael Varane from Lens in 2011. However, after spending ten years at the club, repaid the club in dividends. Now, he's in the Real Madrid hall-of-fame.
With Real Madrid, Varane won four Champions Leagues and three Liga titles. He had many great memories in a Real Madrid shirt, but those title wins will be up there.
In fact, the 2014 Champions League final sticks out in my head. He kicked the ball towards Atletico manager Diego Simeone, which will always win him brownie points in a Real Madrid shirt.
It is hard to imagine Raphael Varane stepping away from football entirely. He is one of the best defenders of his generation for a reason, his love for the game.
His next steps remain to be seen but it would be great to see Varane return to Real Madrid one day for a coaching role.