Farewell at Old Trafford: Varane's emotional goodbye to united

Raphael Varane spent three seasons at Manchester United. He joined the English club in 2021, having previously played for RC Lens and Real Madrid. Although his tenure at Manchester United is short compared to the club's legends, three years is enough to become attached to a place.

Manchester United decided not to extend the contract with the 31-year-old Frenchman. As a result, the defender will play for another club next season.

During Manchester United’s last season match at Old Trafford, departing players were bid farewell. One of them was Raphael Varane. The mood was cheerful as United won 3-2 against Newcastle United.

After the official farewell, Raphael Varane organised a private goodbye with Old Trafford. He may never play in this stadium again, especially not as a host.

The Frenchman sat in the middle of the field, still illuminated by the floodlights. Many employees and journalists were still at the stadium, but the fans had already left the stands, and the TV broadcast had ended. The defender presumably reflected on the last three years or perhaps contemplated the future.

Raphael Varane's behaviour is hard to call a publicity stunt. He did not post the pictures an alert photojournalist took on his social media. With this sentimental gesture, the Frenchman demonstrated that he is not an athlete who plays football just for money but is emotionally affected by his farewell to the legendary stadium.