Frenchman Raphael Varane has made a startling revelation about his professional football career. He revealed that he spent the last 11 years playing with the functional use of only one knee.

In a recent interview with French Publication L’Equipe, the 31-year-old former Manchester United and Real Madrid defender opened up about his long-term battle with a knee injury, which significantly shaped his playing style and endurance.

The French World Cup winner explained that his right knee had been compromised since a meniscus injury in 2013, forcing his left knee to strain more over the years.

“Since the age of 20, I’ve played with the sword of Damocles hanging above my right knee,” Varane said. “The right knee had become strong but less mobile, and my left knee did everything for power and pushing off.”

Despite his debilitating injury, Varane’s career was nothing short of remarkable. During his time at Real Madrid, he secured four Champions League titles, and with France, he was part of the 2018 World Cup-winning squad.

His final season at Manchester United ended on a high note, as he lifted the FA Cup. Still, after 11 years of managing a delicate balance, his body could no longer handle the strain, leading him to retire from professional football last month.

Varane shared how he adapted his game to cope with his condition: “I haven’t tackled for years,” he admitted, explaining that he had to find new ways to maintain his defensive prowess.

“Psychologically, I couldn’t say to myself or my teammates that I had only one knee. But I knew the risks. We don’t put our lives on the line like gladiators, but we all play with physical issues. It’s part of who we are.”

Reflecting on his decision to retire, Varane expressed no regrets. “If I had stopped earlier, I would have had regrets. Now I know I’ve reached my limit, and I can be proud of all that I’ve achieved.”

In addition to discussing his physical struggles, Varane criticized modern football, calling it “too robotic” and lamenting the loss of creativity and flair.

“There are fewer geniuses on the pitch now. Everything is tactical; there’s much less freedom to play spontaneously.”

Varane’s story offers a rare glimpse into the sacrifices and mental toughness required to maintain a top-level career while managing a serious injury.

It also raises questions about how modern football’s physical demands might affect players’ longevity and creativity.

ALSO READ: Messi’s Masterclass: Hat-Trick and assists power Argentina to dominant win over Bolivia