Recently retired former Manchester United defender, Raphaël Varane, has joined the board of Serie B club Como.

The 31-year-old left Old Trafford after his contract expired, following Manchester United’s FA Cup final triumph over Manchester City, and subsequently signed a two-year deal with newly promoted Como, a club overseen by Cesc Fàbregas.

However, Varane sustained a knee injury on his debut during a Coppa Italia tie against Sampdoria, and the 2018 World Cup winner announced his retirement last month.

The Frenchman has confirmed he will remain with Como and has now been appointed as a board member at the Italian club.

“Being a top-level athlete brings immense joy, sacrifice, and a relentless pursuit of exceeding limits,” Varane expressed.

“Throughout my career, I have always been driven by the desire for improvement and the pursuit of excellence. Stepping off the pitch and into the boardroom is not the end of my football journey; rather, it marks a new beginning, which I am eagerly embracing.

“Joining the board at Como enables me to continue contributing to the sport whilst helping shape its future.”

In his new role, Varane will focus on youth development and education, while also advising on Como’s long-term success.

“This new chapter in my career feels like a second beginning, not a conclusion. I am not bidding farewell to football,” he added.

“Becoming part of the Como 1907 Development Committee excites me, and I look forward to being involved in an ambitious project that aligns with my values.

“Together, we will invest in youth development, expand educational opportunities, and innovate to bring the club’s vision to fruition.”