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Raphael Varane says Como will be 'competing for Europe in five years', addresses 'challenging' retirement from football

Alasdair Mackenzie

Published 20/12/2024 at 12:44 GMT

Raphael Varane was forced to retire from football aged just 31 earlier this season following his summer move to Como from Manchester United. The France and Real Madrid great suffered a knee injury on his debut and admitted it has been "challenging" to adapt to a new off-pitch role at Como. But Varane is confident that the ambitious Italians will be "challenging for Europe" within "five years."

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Former Manchester United defender Raphael Varane admits he has found it "challenging" to swap the pitch for the director’s box at Como, but is confident the Serie A new boys will be in Europe within "five years."
The lakesiders have made waves since returning to the top flight for the first time in 21 years in the summer, bringing in several big names and hosting Hollywood A-listers like Keira Knightley and Hugh Grant at the picturesque Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia.
Former Real Madrid and France centre-back Varane was the biggest name to join the club for the 2024/25 campaign, but his career was cruelly cut short when a knee injury on debut ultimately forced him to hang up his boots aged 31.
However, Varane was soon moved into a new role as a board member for the ambitious Italians, where he is "advising on youth development, education and product innovation."
Cesc Fabregas’ side have had a tricky start to the season and go into their clash with champions Inter on Monday night – live on TNT Sports and discovery+ - one point above the drop zone in 16th place, albeit on the back of a stirring 2-0 win over Roma.
But Varane insists that Como’s ambitions for the future go way beyond relegation scraps.
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"In five years, I see Como as a well-established club in Serie A, competing for European places," Varane told Lega Serie A’s 'Calcio Weekly' newsletter.
"We want to build sustainably, not just by focusing on results but also by creating a strong identity and connection with the community.
"The vision is to develop a club that attracts top talent, nurtures young players, and becomes a destination for football fans worldwide. Lake Como is already iconic - our goal is to make Como 1907 just as iconic in football."  

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The likes of Real Madrid starlet Nico Paz, Italy international Andrea Belotti and Barcelona midfielder Sergi Roberto joined the club during an eye-catching summer transfer window.
Attacking midfielder Paz in particular has lit up the league with some superb performances, with the teenager sealing last weekend’s win over Roma with a goal deep in stoppage-time.  
Experienced players like former Liverpool duo Pepe Reina and Alberto Moreno have also joined, and Varane is encouraged by the standard of talent that the club has already secured.  
"It’s vital for our vision. Bringing in people of that calibre not only strengthens the squad but also raises the profile of the club globally," said Varane.  
"It shows that we’re serious about competing at a high level and creating something special here.
"These players also bring invaluable experience and leadership, which helps the younger players grow. It’s a testament to the ambition we have at Como."
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Raphaël Varane, Hugh Grant and Anna Eberstein attend the match between Como 1907 and Parma at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on October 19, 2024 in Como, Italy

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During his playing days, Varane was widely considered one of the best defenders in the world, winning four UEFA Champions League titles with Real Madrid and the FIFA World Cup with France.  
Injuries plagued the latter stages of his career, including his three-year spell at Old Trafford, leading to the difficult decision to retire and move into a new role.
"It was challenging at first, as football has been my life for so many years," Varane said.
"But I’ve embraced this new chapter with a sense of purpose. My role on the development board allows me to contribute to the club in a meaningful way, using my experience as a player to shape the future of Como.
"It’s fulfilling to help the team grow and support young talent while continuing to be part of the sport I love."
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How to watch Inter v Como on TNT Sports and discovery+

Como face Inter at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on Monday, December 23, with kick-off at 19:45 UK time.
The game will be shown live on TNT Sports 1 and discovery+.
Inter head into the match as huge favourites after their statement 6-0 demolition of title rivals Lazio in Rome last weekend.

Stream the 2024-25 Serie A season live on TNT Sports and discovery+
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