THE LOWDOWN — THE FULL HISTORY
THE RULE
Serie A club Como 1907 has banned heading in its academy, guided by Raphaël Varane. Under-11s do not head the ball at all, with corners rolled along the floor. From under-12, a light rubber ball is used, with strict limits on how often.
THE MAN
Varane won four Champions Leagues and the 2018 World Cup, a career built in the air. He retired in 2024 after Real Madrid, Manchester United and Como, and sits on Como's youth board. He has said he suffered two serious concussions at 16, kept playing, and that he has "damaged" his body. He tells his own son not to head the ball.
THE SCIENCE
The FIELD study from the University of Glasgow found former professional footballers about 3.5 times more likely to die of neurodegenerative disease. Defenders, Varane's position, carried the highest risk, at around five times; goalkeepers were close to the general population.
THE QUESTION
The header may be the first thing football gives up to protect the next generation.
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THE TERRACES — DISCUSSION
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