Rio Ferdinand has summed up Raphael Varane's France career in one word after the Manchester United defender announced his international retirement on Thursday.
The centre-back’s crowning glory came in 2018 when France lifted the World Cup after a 4-2 win over Croatia in the final. The 29-year-old also made it to the final of last year’s World Cup where France fell to Argentina on penalties.
Varane earned a total of 93 caps for his country, taking the armband on several occasions. Explaining his decision to call time on his international career on Instagram, he wrote: “Representing our great country for a decade has been one of the greatest honours of my life.
READ MORE: Varane retires from international football
“Every time I wore this very special blue jersey I felt immense pride. I will miss these moments with you for sure, but the time has come for the new generation to take over.
“We have a bunch of talented young players who are ready to take over, who deserve a chance and who need you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.”
Ferdinand is a big fan of Varane, having praised him on many occasions since his arrival at Old Trafford. And so the former United star made sure to hand him a compliment upon his international retirement.
Commenting on Varane’s post, Ferdinand simply wrote: “Legendary”. Varane has made 47 appearances for United since his arrival in August 2021, 18 of which have come this season.
The former Real Madrid hero has struggled with injury since his arrival, including a knee problem that almost forced him out of the World Cup in December. His France exit means he will have more opportunities to rest and spend more time with his family.
READ NEXT:
