Raphael Varane will LEAVE Man Utd in summer on free transfer as Sir Jim Ratcliffe begins club overhaul
RAPHAEL VARANE will leave Manchester United when his contract expires this summer, the club have confirmed.
The Frenchman, who currently earns £350,000-a-week, has made 93 appearances for United since joining from Real Madrid almost three years ago.
Varane announced his departure with a heartfelt message on social media.
In a video, he said: “To you guys, supporters of Manchester United, it’s been an amazing few years to play for this special club and wearing that shirt.
“The first time I went to Old Trafford as a Man Utd player it was insane, the atmosphere was amazing.
“I fell in love with the club, with the fans. You have to play for Man Utd to understand what that represents.
“For my kids, it’s home here. It’s going to be a special place for me for life.”
Varane played his final match for Man Utd at the beginning of April, when the Red Devils suffered a dramatic 4-3 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
The defender has since been sidelined with a muscle injury.
He is one of several players set to leave Old Trafford this summer, with new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe determined to overhaul the first team squad.
The Red Devils are expected to entertain talks for almost everyone except Kobbie Mainoo, Rasmus Hojlund and Alejandro Garnacho.
Ahead of his imminent exit, Varane insists Man Utd are in great shape under the guidance of Ratcliffe and his INEOS group.
The 31-year-old added: “Despite the fact we had a difficult season, I’m very positive for the future.
“The new owners are coming with a clear plan and a great strategy.”
Varane concluded his farewell video by saying: “I’ll see you at Old Trafford to say goodbye for the last game at home this season. And it’s going to be a very emotional day for me, for sure.”
The World Cup winner walks away from Old Trafford having earned just under £55million in wages.
During his time with United, he won the Carabao Cup at Wembley in 2023.
Varane's statement in full
“To you guys, supporters of Manchester United, it’s been an amazing few years to play for this special club and wearing that shirt.
“The first time I went to Old Trafford as a Man Utd player it was insane, the atmosphere was amazing.
“I fell in love with the club, with the fans. You have to play for Man Utd to understand what that represents.
“For my kids, it’s home here. It’s going to be a special place for me for life.
“When the fans go to Wembley it’s something they remember for life. To share that moment with them was absolutely amazing.
“Despite the fact we had a difficult season, I’m very positive for the future.
“The new owners are coming with a clear plan and a great strategy.
“I’ll see you at Old Trafford to say goodbye for the last game at home this season. And it’s going to be a very emotional day for me, for sure.”
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