Raphael Varane suffers horror start on Como debut as familiar Man United issue arises

Raphael Varane endured a difficult start to his Como career after being taken off after less than half an hour into his debut on Sunday. The 31-year-old, who left Manchester United upon his expiry of his contract back in June, joined the Italian side last month following their promotion to the Serie A.

He signed a two-year contract and lined up for his Como debut during their Coppa Italia first round trip to Sampdoria. He started alongside the likes of former Liverpool duo Pepe Reina and Alberto Moreno, ex-Wolves forward Patrick Cutrone and prolific marksman Andrea Belotti.

However, Varane's debut got off to the worst possible start. Having struggled with injuries throughout the majority of his United career, the Frenchman hobbled off in the 23rd minute with a suspected knee issue. He walked off next to two Como physios and was replaced by Edoardo Goldaniga.

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It's a bitter blow for Varane, who would have been hoping to make an impression to his new teammates. After losing Varane, Como went behind as Nicholas Ioannou opened the scoring for Sampdoria. However, Como responded and levelled through Cutrone just before half-time.

Neither team could find the eventual winner as the game went to penalties. And following a dramatic shootout, it was Sampdoria who came out on top and progressed through to the next round as Gennaro Tutino struck the decisive blow. Next up for Como is their Serie A opener against Juventus.

Varane was no stranger to picking up injuries during his three years at United. He didn't manage to make more than 24 Premier League appearances in each of his three seasons due to repeated issues. In fact, Varane missed a staggering 48 matches across his time at Old Trafford.

At United, Varane made 95 appearances and enjoyed some special memories, winning the Carabao Cup and FA Cup in that time. Speaking after confirming his departure, Varane said: "To you guys, supporters of Manchester United, it has been an amazing few years to play for this special club and wear that shirt.

"The first time I went to Old Trafford as a Man United player was insane. The atmosphere was amazing. I fell in love with the club, with the fans. You have to play for Manchester United to understand what that represents. For my kids, it's home here. It is going to be a special place for me for life."