Raphael Varane retires from France duty to focus on Manchester United'

Raphael Varane has officially announced his retirement from France duty, with the Manchester United centre-back determined to prolong his career at club level.

The 29-year-old has been a France international since 2013, representing the national side on 93 occasions, winning the World Cup and UEFA Nations League in the process.

Varane had been a major doubt for the 2022 World Cup due to injury, but he was able to feature at the tournament, playing an important role in the European nation reaching the final against Argentina.

The centre-back was believed to be one of the main candidates to replace Hugo Lloris as France captain following the latter's retirement, but he has now stepped away from the national side.

Varane's recent fitness issues have seemingly played a major role in his decision, with the defender determined to continue at club level for as long as possible.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Raphael Varane (@raphaelvarane)

Varane is also said to be keen to spend more time with his family, and he is comfortable stepping away from selection due to the quality of the options behind him.

The defender was absent for Erik ten Hag's side before the World Cup due to a leg injury, but he has been a vital player for Man United this season, featuring on 18 occasions in all competitions.

Varane and Lisandro Martinez have formed an impressive partnership in the middle of the Man United defence, with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof now both down the pecking order.

The former Lens youngster has a contract at Old Trafford until June 2025, but he could potentially sign a longer deal to take him towards the end of his career.

© Reuters

Varane recently said that his side must "believe" in their chances of winning silverware this season, with the Red Devils competing on four fronts in the Premier League, FA Cup, EFL Cup and Europa League, while he also spoke of his 'happiness' at Old Trafford.

"I think we have to believe, I think we need that confidence for winning trophies. I think we are already improving a lot and we are in a good moment," Varane told Man United's official website.

"We have to stay calm but be ambitious at the same time. I think we are much better now and we have to keep going... I feel very happy, it is a great experience for me, I am really enjoying every moment at this great club and I feel good with my teammates.

"I am really enjoying it. I hope for the future, we will keep going with our improvement and hopefully winning great victories, and be happy with our fans."

Varane has made 47 appearances for Man United since arriving from Real Madrid in the summer of 2021.