Raphael Varane has announced that he will be leaving Manchester United when his contract expires in the summer, following three seasons with the English side.
Varane joined the Red Devils from Real Madrid on August 14, 2021, for a fee of €40 million.
Raphael Varane has had to battle through injuries during his stint at Manchester United, with the defender making 93 appearances, scoring 2 goals, and providing 1 assist across 3 seasons at Old Trafford.
The Frenchman put up several impressive performances for the Manchester-based club, helping the team win the Carabao Cup last season.
Varane penned a 3-year deal when he joined Manchester United in 2021, with his contract running until 2024.
There was also the option for the contract to be stretched for a further year, however, both parties have decided to end their ties.
Why is Raphael Varane leaving Manchester United?
Reports indicate that Raphael Varane failed to agree a new contract with Manchester United to replace his current over €300,000 per week deal, and that is the apparent reason behind his exit.
Anyway, it appears Varane absolutely loves the club and in his emotional farewell video revealing his impending departure, the defender said:
“I fell in love with the club, with the fans. You have to play for Man United to understand what that represents. For my kids, it’s home here. It’s going to be a special place for me, for life.”
He also added that it was a pleasure sharing the moment with the fans when the team went to Wembley for the Carabao Cup final, where they defeated Newcastle United 2-0.
“When the fans went to Wembley [last season], it’s something they will remember for life. To share that moment with them was absolutely amazing”, Raphael Varane said.
The 2018 FIFA World Cup winner also looks to be in on the project that the new owners of Manchester United are embarking on, and he had great words to say about it.
Varane said: “Despite the fact we had a difficult season, I’m very positive for the future. The new owners are coming with a clear plan and a great strategy.
“I’ll see you at Old Trafford to say goodbye for the last game at home this season and it’s going to be very emotional day for me, for sure.”
Raphael Varane’s Unveiling
Raphael Varane was unveiled in front of a packed Old Trafford in 2021, ahead of Manchester United’s 5-1 win over Leeds United, with fans buzzing to see the ex-Real Madrid man.
Varane
The 31-year-old has played for just three clubs in his career, namely; RC Lens, Real Madrid, and Manchester United.
He has made 477 club career appearances thus far, scoring 21 goals and providing 8 assists in all competitions.
Varane has also won several trophies in his career, including; 1 FIFA World Cup title, 4 UEFA Champions Leagues, and 3 La Liga titles.
It is uncertain what his next career move is, but he has been linked with a possible move to Saudi Arabia.
