Why have Como left former Real Madrid defender Varane off their squad list?

The four-time Champions League winner isn’t on the newly-promoted club’s 25-player roster for the 2024/25 Serie A season.

Como have shown plenty of ambition since returning to Serie A for the first time in 21 years, as illustrated by the signing of former Real Madrid defender Raphaël Varane, a four-time Champions League winner. However, the Frenchman’s short time at the club hasn’t gone according to plan.

Varane made his debut for the Italian club, who are managed by ex-Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fàbregas, against Sampdoria in the Coppa Italia on August 11 but lasted only 23 minutes before being forced off with a knee injury. It was initially suggested he would be sidelined for a month, although it now appears the issue is more serious than was first thought.

As a result Como have opted to leave Varane off their roster for the season, with Serie A rules stipulating they must submit a list of 25 players they are planning to use in the competition in 2024/25. That has led to speculation his contract could be terminated, and that he could even retire from soccer.

Varane’s injury nightmare continues

Fàbregas, however, has left the door open for the centre-back to resume his career with Como further down the line: “We are waiting for him, but for now he will continue his recovery in Madrid. We will see what happens, we have to see how he is and how he feels. It’s his decision and for the moment his recovery hasn’t gone well, so we have to wait more. I can’t make the decision, I must wait and respect whatever decision he makes.”

Although only 31, Varane appears to be something of a crossroads. The defender made 22 Premier League appearances for Manchester United last season but his three-year spell in England was hampered by constant injuries, which prevented him from showing his best form.

Along with former Barcelona captain Sergi Roberto, ex-Liverpool left-back Alberto Moreno and Italian international striker Andrea Belotti, Como had hoped Varane could help them consolidate their spot in Serie A after their long-awaited return to the top flight.