Raphael Varane leaves Manchester United at the end of the season

It's official: Raphael Varane will leave Manchester United at the end of the season, both parties announced this Tuesday.

The French center-back will leave the Red Devils on a free transfer, as the English club will not exercise the option for an additional year on his contract.

"I look forward to a farewell at Old Trafford in the last game of this season. It will certainly be an emotional moment," said the former Real Madrid player.

Over the course of three seasons at Manchester United, marked by various injuries, Varane has played 93 games, scored two goals, and provided one assist, falling well short of the level he previously demonstrated in Madrid.

Varane's time at Manchester United has been a mixture of highs and lows. When he joined from Real Madrid, he was hailed as a significant signing, expected to bring experience and stability to United's defense. However, his tenure has been plagued by injuries that have limited his impact and prevented him from consistently showcasing the form that made him one of the world's top defenders.

Despite these challenges, Varane has shown flashes of his old self, delivering commanding performances that remind fans of his capabilities. His leadership qualities and experience have been invaluable, particularly in high-pressure situations. However, the frequent interruptions due to injuries have hindered his ability to build momentum and fully integrate into the team’s defensive setup.

As Varane prepares to bid farewell to Old Trafford, speculation about his next move is already underway. The 30-year-old defender still has much to offer, and several top European clubs are likely to be interested in securing his services. His departure will leave a significant gap in United's defense, prompting the club to seek reinforcements in the upcoming transfer window.

For Manchester United, Varane's exit marks the end of a chapter that didn't quite meet the lofty expectations set at the start. The club will need to reassess their defensive options and possibly look for a replacement who can provide the consistency and reliability that Varane, despite his talent, was unable to offer consistently due to his injury struggles.

Fans will have mixed feelings about Varane's departure. While his contributions on the field were limited, his professionalism and attitude have earned him respect. His farewell at Old Trafford will be a poignant moment, celebrating his time at the club and acknowledging the unfortunate circumstances that curtailed his potential impact.

As the season winds down, Varane will aim to finish on a high note, contributing to United's efforts in their final matches. His departure will be a reminder of the challenges and unpredictability of football, where even the most promising moves don’t always go as planned.