Varane announces Man Utd exit at end of season

After spending three years at Old Trafford, Raphael Varane revealed on Tuesday that he will depart Manchester United at the end of the current campaign when his contract ends.

The 31-year-old former France defender joined the team in 2021 for an estimated £34 million ($43 million), moving from Real Madrid. In 93 games, he has scored twice.

He was a member of the group that took home the 2023 League Cup, the club's first trophy in six years.

Despite having not played since United's 4-3 loss to Chelsea on April 4, Varane, whose career at United has been plagued by injuries, intends to return to action before the season ends.

Varane posted on social media, "To you guys, Manchester United supporters, it's been an amazing few years to play for this special club and wear that shirt."

"As a Man United player, my first visit to Old Trafford was incredible; the atmosphere was incredible."

"I fell in love—both with the team and the supporters. You can't comprehend what that means unless you are a Man United player.

"I'm very positive for the future, even though we had a difficult season," the 2018 World Cup winner continued. Jim Ratcliffe, the co-owner of United, is the new owner, and he has a fantastic strategy and a well-defined plan.

Varane acknowledged his departure, according to a statement from United, adding that he had brought a "great deal of class and experience to the team "
Rapha is most known for his unwavering defense-minded approach, as he has demonstrated his exceptional talent since joining the team, the club continued.

United's season has been a complete disaster; they are currently sitting in ninth position in the Premier League with 14 losses, and it appears improbable that they will make it to Europe.

With two league games remaining against Newcastle and Brighton, Erik ten Hag's team will play Manchester City in the FA Cup final on May 25.