Given that Manchester United center-back Raphael Varane announced his retirement from international football on Thursday, Kylian Mbappe of Paris Saint-Germain may take over as France’s captain.
After making his debut for his nation in 2013, the 29-year-old Varane, who won the World Cup in 2018, scored five goals in 93 matches.
His final appearance came in the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar, where Argentina defeated France on penalties.
“Representing our great country for a decade has been one of the greatest honours of my life,” said Varane.
“Every time I wore this very special blue jersey I felt immense pride. The duty to give it all, play my heart out and win every time we put on the field.
“I’ve been contemplating this for several months and deciding it’s the right time for me to retire internationally.”
Varane, who joined United from Real Madrid in August 2021, is the newest member of the Les Bleus to announce his retirement following the World Cup.
Hugo Lloris, the goalie and captain for Tottenham, retired in January, three weeks after the team’s defeat to the Leo Messi-led Argentine team in the championship game.
Varane was anticipated to succeed Lloris as France’s captain, but Mbappe, who won the FIFA Golden Ball award for scoring eight goals, is anticipated to succeed him.
Karim Benzema of Real Madrid, who missed the FIFA World Cup in Qatar owing to injury, announced his retirement from international play immediately after his nation’s defeat against Argentina.
Mbappe, 24, is Didier Deschamps’ potential captain and the current assistant captain of PSG’s all-star squad.
