COMO, Italy (AP) — Former France and Real Madrid central defender Raphael Varane announced his retirement on Wednesday, ending a career that included a World Cup title and a host of club trophies.

The 31-year-old Varane signed with promoted Serie A club Como in July, but injured his knee in his only appearance for the club: an Italian Cup match against Sampdoria last month.

“In my career I have taken on many challenges, been able to do everything from one day to the next, and almost everything seemed impossible,” Varane wrote on Instagram“When I think back on these moments, it is with immense pride and a sense of accomplishment that I announce my retirement from the sport we all love.”

Varane was perhaps the tournament’s standout defender as France won the 2018 World Cup in Russia, scoring the most important of his five international goals with a header against Uruguay in the quarter-finals.

Varane was an elegant, skilled defender with an excellent positional sense thanks to his quick insight into the game, and he formed a solid central defensive duo with Samuel Umtiti in that tournament.

He also helped Madrid to four Champions League titles and three Spanish league titles.

In 2021 he left for Manchester United, but he only made 95 appearances in his three seasons in England, mainly due to injuries.

Varane started his career at Lens.

“From Lens to Madrid to Manchester, and playing for our national team. I defended every badge with everything I have, and I enjoyed every minute of the journey,” Varane said. “I have no regrets, I wouldn’t change anything. I won more than I ever dreamed of.”

Varane had already said goodbye to the French national teama few months after the defeat in the 2022 World Cup final against Argentina. During that match, his 93rd for Les Bleus after his debut in 2013, he fell to the ground exhausted in extra time.

Varane said he would stay at Como: “Just without using my boots and shin guards. Something I will share more about soon.”

Como secured its first Serie A victory in over 21 years as coach Cesc Fabregas’ team won 3-2 at Atalanta on tuesday. ___

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