French defender Raphael Varane will leave Manchester United this summer after his contract with the Red Devils, with which he played for three seasons, expires, according to what the English football club announced.
The club said in a statement, “Varane has provided class and experience to the team during 93 matches so far. He helped the Frenchman win our first major title in six years when he lifted the 2023 FA Cup at Wembley Stadium.”
He added, “Everyone at United thanks Rafa for his service and wishes him the best for his future.”
Varane (31 years old) moved to United from Real Madrid in 2021 in a deal estimated at $43 million. He played 93 matches in all competitions for his shirt and scored two goals.
The defender, who announced his international retirement after losing the 2022 World Cup final to Argentina in Qatar, has been absent from his team since the 4-3 loss to Chelsea on May 4 due to injury, but he may participate again before the season ends.
Varane said in a video he posted on his Instagram account: “To you, Manchester United fans, it has been wonderful years playing for this special club and wearing this shirt.”
He added, “The first time I went to Old Trafford as a Manchester United player, it was surreal. The atmosphere was wonderful.”
He continued, “I fell in love with this club and the fans. You have to play for Manchester United to understand what it represents.”
The four-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid pointed out: “Although we had a difficult season, I am very optimistic about the future. The new owners (including Jim Ratcliffe) are coming with a clear plan and a great strategy.”
Varane suffered from injuries, as he missed 13 matches this season due to three injuries. He also missed 15 matches last season and 19 matches before that, all due to various injuries.
United are suffering in terms of results this season, as they currently occupy eighth place and still have two matches to play, and failed to qualify for the Champions League and the European League (Europa League), but they hope to win the FA Cup against Manchester City in the final, which will be held on May 25.
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