DONE DEAL: A former Manchester United defender has finalised his move to a little team in Serie A, where he will be playing with former players from Liverpool.

Como is experiencing rapid growth as a club in Italy and has successfully acquired the services of a player who has won the World Cup.
Raphael Varane, a former player for Manchester United, has finalised his transfer to Como, a team in Serie A.

The 31-year-old player has recently become a member of the club without having to pay any transfer fee, as his contract with Old Trafford ended at the conclusion of the previous season. He will now be under the guidance of Cesc Fabregas, a former player of both Arsenal and Chelsea. Last Monday, the Spaniard was designated as the manager and is expected to guide Como into the Italian premier league for the first time in 22 years.

“Raphael is an exceptional player, and his signing serves as evidence of the high aspirations we hold for this club,” Fabregas expressed to Como’s website. “He possesses a multitude of accolades and his extensive experience in two of the top-tier leagues worldwide should not be undervalued.” I am really anticipating the commencement of our collaboration.

Varane is the most recent addition to the growing project located in the picturesque Italian countryside. In 2018, Como was in the fourth division of Italian football. However, the club has had a swift ascent under Indonesian ownership. Additionally, Fabregas and Thierry are minority partners, while Michael Essien and Dennis Wise have also been involved in the team’s management.

Como achieved promotion to Serie A under the leadership of Osian Roberts, although he was later replaced by Fabregas. The club has made significant signings this summer, including Pepe Reina, Alberto Moreno, Andrea Belotti, and Varane.

“Initially, I was intrigued to ascertain the nature of the project, and upon further examination, I promptly discerned its distinctiveness, setting it apart from any previous opportunities I had encountered. Consequently, my desire to acquire additional information was heightened,” expressed the centre-back.

“As I gained more knowledge about the project, it grew increasingly captivating, providing me with a fresh outlook on my desired course of action.” Upon the project’s arrival, it swiftly ascended to the highest priority and we successfully finalised the agreement.

“I am extremely pleased.” There are numerous tasks to accomplish, and the situation is highly stimulating. With my extensive expertise at the pinnacle of the field, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to impart my knowledge and assist a club in its growth, with the ultimate goal of achieving excellence.

Varane played in 95 matches during his time at Old Trafford, which spanned three years and was affected by injuries. His final game took place in the 2024 FA Cup final, where Manchester United emerged victorious over Manchester City.