Raphael Varane made it known on Tuesday that he will be departing from Manchester United at the conclusion of the season, as his contract comes to an end after a three-year tenure at Old Trafford.
The 31-year-old former France defender joined the team in 2021 for an estimated £34 million ($43 million), moving from Real Madrid. In 93 games, he has scored twice.
He was a member of the group that took home the 2023 League Cup, the club’s first trophy in six years.
Despite having not played since United’s 4-3 loss to Chelsea on April 4, Varane, whose career at United has been plagued by injuries, hopes to return to action before the season ends.
“To you guys, supporters of Manchester United it’s been an amazing few years to play for this special club and wear that shirt,” Varane said on social media.
“The first time I went to Old Trafford as a Man United player 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.”
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The 2018 World Cup winner added: “Despite the fact we had a difficult season, I’m very positive for the future. The new owners (United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe) are coming with a clear plan and a great strategy.”
United issued a statement saying Varane had confirmed his exit, saying he had brought a “great deal of class and experience to the team”.
“It is unflappable work at the heart of the defence that Rapha is most recognised for, as he has shown his undoubted quality since joining the club,” the club added.
United’s season has been a complete disaster; they are currently sitting in eighth place in the Premier League with 14 losses, and it appears unlikely that they will make it to Europe.
With two league games remaining against Newcastle and Brighton, Erik ten Hag’s team will play Manchester City in the FA Cup final on May 25.
AFP
