Raphael Varane: The Rolls-Royce bids farewell

The French defender announced his retirement from football at the age of 31

Transcript

00:00I think Rafa, he achieved everything in international football, club-wise, but also with his nation.

00:09I think it's incredible what he achieved.

00:30Barhain has everything you need to be a good defender.

00:43He's got quality, he's got speed, he's got a tactical mind.

00:52It means he positions himself well defensively.

01:00Even when he arrived 18 years ago, he showed his ability, his desire to succeed and to show what he can do.

01:25That's what he's been doing all these years.

01:27He's won a lot of things, but beyond that, he's always shown his ability to be a leader.

01:55He's so composed on the ball and he's so experienced.

02:01Nothing faces him, and he was good in the dressing room before.

02:26Fran isn't in the squad, so he will be out shortly until the World Cup.

02:35For every player, it's not just about age.

02:50It's about everyone's situation, whether it's professional, physical or family.

02:56It's about everyone's situation, whether it's professional, physical or family.

03:02I have to accept that.

03:26I have to accept that.