Raphael Varane's first words as a Como player speak volumes after Man Utd exit

Manchester United defender Raphael Varane left Old Trafford on a free transfer when his contract expired, but the French international has now found himself a new club

Former Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has hailed Como's "project" after joining the newly-promoted Serie A club.

World Cup winning centre-back Varane left Old Trafford earlier in the summer, with United opting against triggering an extension in his contract. He played under multiple managers after joining the club in 2021, with a fair amount of upheaval around the club during that period, but he'll be hoping for more consistency in his new surroundings.

The 31-year-old has been biding his time since his deal in England expired. After nearly a month, though, he has been confirmed as Como's newest signing, agreeing a two-year contract with an option for a third.

Cesc Fabregas has been confirmed as Como's manager as they prepare for a first season back in Serie A after winning promotion last term. The former Arsenal, Barcelona and Chelsea midfielder has already added former Premier League stars Alberto Moreno and Pepe Reina to the squad, and Varane's arrival represents a major coup.

“At first, I was curious to find out what the project was all about, and then I immediately saw that it was special, different from any other I’d been offered, so I wanted to know more," Varane said after his arrival was announced. "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 along, it went straight to the top of the list, and we managed to close the deal. I’m very happy. There’s a lot to do, and it’s very exciting. I have a lot of experience at the highest level, and now to be able to share that knowledge and help a club build itself up and hopefully reach the top is super exciting.

“I’m meeting Cesc again, but not as an opponent this time. I’m very happy, I really like his philosophy of play and his passion for football. When we spoke it was so easy to understand each other, so I hope we’ll have very positive results. In any case, I’m coming with a great deal of humility to help the team and the club grow.”

How will Como get on this season? Have your say in the comments section

Head coach Fabregas, who is also a part-owner at Como, served as assistant to caretaker boss Osian Roberts last season. The coaching team oversaw a nine-match unbeaten run to close out last season and secure automatic promotion with a second-place finish behind Parma.

A number of summer signings have followed ahead of a first Serie A campaign in more than 20 years. Reina and Moreno have both moved to the Italian club on free transfers from Villarreal, while Andrea Belotti - a Euro 2020 winner with Italy - made the move from Roma.

“Raphael is a special player and his signing is proof of the ambition we have for this club," Fabregas said of Varane. "He is highly decorated and the experience he brings in two of the best leagues in the world can not be underestimated. I can’t wait to start working with him.”

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