‘I’m suffocating’ – Manchester United defender Raphael Varane explains France retirement and reveals mental toll of ‘overloaded’ schedule

Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has opened up on his decision to step down from his duties in France.

World Cup winner Varane stunned the footballing world on Friday when he announced his decision to quit playing international football.

The Frenchman is 29, two months from his 30th birthday, and the boss of the Blues, Didier Deschamps, was to entrust him with the post of captain.

However, after 93 caps for his country, Varane explained how football’s ‘overcrowded’ schedule had left its physical and mental scars.

In an interview with Canal+, which will air in full on Sunday, Varane said: “I gave it my all, physically and mentally.

“But the highest level is like a washing machine, you play all the time and you never stop.

“We have busy schedules and play non-stop. Right now I feel like I’m suffocating and that [Varane] the player engulfs [Varane] the man.”

Meanwhile, manager Deschamps admitted his disappointment but understood Varane’s decision.

Deschamps said: “I had a similar situation. I understand his arguments and respect his decision, even if it may seem unfortunate in view of everything he has done in the World Cup, during which, from start to finish, he acted like the leader that we know. .

“Of course, I cannot turn this page without some emotion, given our close ties since August 2012.

“Like Hugo Lloris, he would have been, injury-free, in all my teams.”