Varane to leave Man Utd at end of season

Raphael Varane will depart Manchester United when his contract expires at the end of this season.

The France defender, who is currently sidelined through injury, is set to leave the Red Devils after three years at Old Trafford.

Varane has made 93 appearances for the club since arriving from Real Madrid in August 2021, scoring two goals, and was part of the side that won the EFL Cup in 2023.

United occupy eighth place in the Premier League table with two games remaining in what has been a torrid 2023-24 campaign, and are in danger of missing out on European qualification.

Nevertheless, the 31-year-old is confident brighter times lie ahead for the club.

Thank you for everything, @ManUtdpic.twitter.com/4nwJxk4ddf

— Raphaël Varane (@raphaelvarane) May 14, 2024

“It’s been an amazing few years to play for this special club and wear that shirt,” he said in a video posted to X on Tuesday.

“The first time I went to Old Trafford as a Man United player, it was insane. The atmosphere was amazing. I fell in love with the club, with the fans. You have to play for Manchester United to understand what it represents.

“It’s going to be a special place for me for life. Despite the fact we had a difficult season, I’m very positive for the future. The new owners are coming in with a clear plan and a great strategy.”

Varane has been sidelined with a muscle injury since United’s 4-3 loss at Chelsea last month. However, the club said in a statement he hopes to be available again before the end of the season.

That would allow him to feature in their FA Cup final against Manchester City on May 25, which fellow centre-back Harry Maguire is thought likely to miss.

United round off their Premier League campaign with games against Newcastle United and Brighton and Hove Albion this week, and Varane will bid farewell to their fans at Wednesday’s home finale against the Magpies.

“I’ll see you at Old Trafford to say goodbye for the last game at home this season and it’s going to be an emotional day for me for sure,” Varane said.