France’s World Cup wining defender, Raphael Varane has confirmed he has retired from international football.
The 29-year-old made an incredible 93 appearances for his country and played a vital role in Les Bleus’ triumph in Russia four years ago.
Varane, meanwhile, was an important member of the side that came close to defending the trophy in Qatar in December but was unable to stop Argentina and Lionel Messi from sealing a memorable victory.
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The Manchester United star made his intentions known in a statement on Thursday.
The elegant centre-half cited the need to protect his body that has succumbed to injury on countless occasions in recent years.
His international career has been wonderful and fruitful and will be missed by Head Coach Deschamps.
France are fortunate they are blessed with a number of emerging central defensive talents.
Arsenal’s William Saliba is likely to be a leading candidate to fill the void left by Varane’s impending retirement.
But, Chelsea’s duo of Wesley Fofana and January signing, Benoit Badiashile will also have designs on the former Real Madrid star’s place.
Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate and his former RB Leipzig teammate Dayot Upamecano, now at Bayern Munich, also boast senior international experience and will provide Deschamps with more viable options during the Euro 2024 qualification campaign.
Varane joined United from Real 18 months ago in a £34million deal but endured a difficult first season at Old Trafford with injuries and a change of management affecting his form.
The arrival of Erik ten Hag has benefited Varane, however, and he has begun to form an outstanding partnership with Lisandro Martinez.
Varane played 80 minutes last night as United safely navigated the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest, winning 2-0 on the night and completing a 5-0 aggregate victory
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