Hugo Lloris reveals why Raphael Varane really retired and struggled at Man Utd

Raphael Varane and Hugo Lloris were France team-mates (Image: Getty)

Former Manchester United defender Raphael Varane ‘fought against his physique’ for much of his career, his ex-team-mate Hugo Lloris has revealed. It comes after Varane announced his retirement aged only 31 on Wednesday.

The former Real Madrid centre-back suffered a knee injury in his first game for new club Como at the weekend. He had only recently joined the Italian club - who are managed by Cesc Fabregas - as a free agent after leaving United.

Varane struggled with fitness issues throughout his career and has decided to call time on his playing days prematurely. Lloris, who won the 2018 World Cup and reached the final in 2022 alongside him, has explained that Varane used up ‘energy’ and ‘effort’ conducting injury-prevention training.

He told L’Equipe: “When he was on the pitch we didn’t lose very often. He had this reassuring aspect, and besides what we showed on the pitch, there was everything we saw behind the scenes.”

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The former Tottenham goalkeeper added: “We saw him fight against his physique and follow his bodybuilding and injury prevention programmes, which took a lot of time, energy, and effort.

“He constantly fought against his body. He pushed the machine to its capacity, and it’s remarkable. He constantly pushed his limits.”

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Varane announced his retirement with a touching statement on social media. He explained that he wanted to leave the sport while still at the top of his game.

"They say all good things must come to an end," Varane wrote on Instagram.

Raphael Varane left Man Utd as a free agent during the summer (Image: Getty) SUBSCRIBE Invalid email

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"In my career I have taken on many challenges, rose to occasion after occasion, almost all of it was supposed to be impossible. Incredible emotions, special moments and memories that will last a lifetime. Reflecting on these moments, it is with immense pride and a feeling of fulfilment that I am announcing my retirement from the game that we all love.

"I hold myself to the highest standard, I want to go out strong, not just holding on to the game. It takes a big dose of courage to listen to your heart and your instinct. Desire and needs are two different things."

Varane left United in the summer after making 95 appearances for the Red Devils in three years. He played in only 22 Premier League games last season, having struggled with a muscular injury.

During his time at United, Varane won the Carabao Cup and lifted the FA Cup in his final appearance.

Hugo Lloris reveals why Raphael Varane really retired and struggled at Man Utd

Hugo Lloris reveals why Raphael Varane really retired and struggled at Man Utd

Hugo Lloris reveals why Raphael Varane really retired and struggled at Man Utd

Hugo Lloris reveals why Raphael Varane really retired and struggled at Man Utd

Hugo Lloris reveals why Raphael Varane really retired and struggled at Man Utd