Raphael Varane left Manchester United at the end of last season (Picture: Getty)
Former Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has landed a new job in football just weeks after ending his playing career.
Varane, who enjoyed a decorated playing career for club and country, left Old Trafford when his contract expired in July.
The centre-back moved to Italian side Como, led by Arsenal legend Cesc Fabregas, but was forced just 23 minutes into his debut in August.
A month later, the 31-year-old decided to call time on his professional career, but the Frenchman has now extended his stay at Como after accepting a role as a board member at the club.
Varane’s new role will see him provide oversight on the club’s youth development efforts, while also advising on the club’s product development strategy.
Announcing the new role, Varane said: ‘Being a top-level sportsman comes with joy, sacrifice, and the constant drive to push beyond limits. Throughout my career, I’ve been motivated by a desire to improve and strive for excellence.
‘Transitioning from the field to the boardroom isn’t the end of my football journey; it’s a new beginning that I’m looking forward to. Joining the board of Como allows me to continue contributing to the sport while shaping its future.
Varane played just one game for Como before retiring (Picture: Getty)
‘This new phase of my career feels like a second birth, not an ending. I’m not saying goodbye to football.
‘Joining the Como 1907 Development Committee excites me, and I look forward to being part of an ambitious project that resonates with my values.
‘Together, we will invest in youth development, expand educational opportunities, and innovate product solutions to bring the club’s vision to life.’
On Varane’s appointment, Como’s Mirwan Suwarso, added: ‘We are pleased to welcome Raphaël to our board. His achievements in the game, combined with his interest in youth and education, aligns with our goals for Como 1907’s future.
‘We are confident that his experience will contribute to the success of both our players and our community.’
Varane, meanwhile, recently admitted that he had planned to end his playing career at United, but felt the urge to move on this summer as the club’s project ‘didn’t suit him’.
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