Former Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has signed a two-year contract with Como

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Former Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has joined Serie A newcomers Como on a two-year deal.

The 31-year-old France international, who won the 2018 World Cup, headed to Italy after leaving Old Trafford earlier this summer when his three-year stay came to an end when his contract expired.

A statement on Como’s official website said: “Como 1907 is pleased to announce the signing of French defender Raphael Varane, who played for Manchester United last season, on a two-year contract with an option to extend.

“Regarded as one of the best defenders of his generation, Varane won three La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues during his time at Real Madrid.

“The 2018 World Cup winner also helped Manchester United win their first major trophies in six years, lifting the 2023 Carabao Cup and then the 2024 FA Cup at Wembley Stadium.”

Varane will join forces with former Arsenal, Barcelona and Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas, who has been appointed head coach following the promotion.

Fabregas said: “Raphael is a special player and his signing is proof of the ambition we have for this club.

“He has won so much in his career and the experience he has gained in two of the best leagues in the world cannot be underestimated. I can’t wait to start working with him.”

Varane said he would take on his new task with “humility”.

He said: “I will meet Cesc again, but this time not as an opponent. I am very happy, I really like his game philosophy and his passion for football.

“When we spoke it was very easy to understand each other, so I hope we have very positive results. In any case, I come with a lot of humility to help the team and the club grow.”