‘I was curious’ – Raphael Varane’s first words since surprise move after leaving Manchester United

Raphael Varane decided to join Como 1907 after leaving Manchester United because their project was “different” to anything he was offered.

Como, who are managed by former Barcelona and Arsenal player Cesc Fabregas, secured promotion to the Italian top flight for the first time in over 20 years last season.

Their aim in 2045/25 is to maintain their Serie A status by avoiding relegation, and the signing of Varane on a free transfer should help. The Frenchman has joined Como on a two-year contract with an option to extend and will bring experience to their dressing room.

Varane won the Carabao Cup and FA Cup during three seasons with United, but fans dreamed of a Premier League title challenge when he signed in the summer of 2021.

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United signed Jadon Sancho and Cristiano Ronaldo in the same window as Varane, but the following season was a disaster and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was replaced by Ralf Rangnick.

Although Varane has shown his quality at Old Trafford when fit, he has regularly struggled with injury problems and it was considered the right decision to let him go.

After Varane’s move to Como was announced, he said: “I’m very happy and excited about this new project and I can’t wait to get started and meet my team and colleagues. There is also the physical preparation for the season to look forward to.

“At first, I was curious to know what the project was about, then I immediately saw that it was special, unlike any other I had been offered, so I wanted to know more.

“The more I learned about the project, the more interesting it became, giving me a different perspective on what I wanted to do. Once the project came up, it went straight to the top of the list and we were able to close the deal. I’m very happy. There is a lot to do.

“I have a lot of experience at the highest level and now to be able to share that knowledge and help a club build and hopefully get to the top is super exciting.

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

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

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 made 95 appearances for United and scored two goals.