Raphael Varane has no regrets over Manchester United transfer

07/21/2022

Varane’s emotions seem to contrast with frustrated Ronaldo, who is already believed to be looking to end his second spell at Old Trafford.

The 37-year-old missed the pre-season tour of Thailand and Australia due to a family issue and it remains to be seen when he will link up with United.

“Of course we want to improve,” Varane said. “Cristiano is a great competitor, he’s a legend. Obviously it’s very good to play with him and he always helps the team.

“He’s a great player and we all want the best players in the team. We will try to improve next season.”

Ronaldo scored 24 goals in all competitions in his first campaign back at United and was crowned Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year, but it was not enough to bring cup success or Champions League qualification.

Some have suggested the veteran’s style meant he was a hindrance rather than a help but Varane dismissed such talk.

“We appreciate him as a player and as a person,” he said. “I think this debate was outside of the dressing room. We know his quality.

“And we know he’s very famous, so we know a lot of people will speak about the performance of the team and his performance.”

Playing for United brings additional scrutiny and pressure, which captain Harry Maguire knows all about.

Erik ten Hag confirmed Maguire would retain the armband this season and the defender was booed by fans in Melbourne at the start of Tuesday’s friendly against Crystal Palace.

“I think he’s a very important player for us,” Varane said. “He’s the captain and he has a lot of great qualities. Obviously we support him and he’s part of the team and very important for us.”

Varane and Maguire were the first-choice centre-back pairing when fit last season but that dynamic could change when Lisandro Martinez arrives from Ajax.

“I think the competition is very good for the team,” Varane said. “We’ll all be better with this competition. It’s good for the team, so every great club is like this. So this is normal.

“I think we have to be ready for this pressure. If everyone wants to fight for the team, that’s great news.”

It is a fresh chapter for all connected to United as new manager Ten Hag looks to improve the fortunes of the 20-time league champions.

“A new season, a new start,” said Varane ahead of Saturday’s friendly against Aston Villa in Perth. “We’re looking forward…new manager and new ideas, new style, so everything is different.

“I think we have a great potential in this team. I think we’re already improving and we can do better. And we’ll keep pushing to fight for the title.

“We are working a lot. (Ten Hag) is very positive, he wants this energy and to press high up the pitch…to keep pushing and be proactive for 90 minutes, so we know exactly what we have to do and we need to work hard.

Raphael Varane has no regrets over Manchester United transfer

Recommended