Solskjaer purrs after Pogba pulls strings in big win for Man Utd
Raphael Varane turned down an offer from Manchester United to do his first interview in his native language, it has been reported. The France international recently joined from Real Madrid. And he was unveiled on the pitch before their emphatic 5-1 victory over Leeds on Saturday.
For Manchester United, the signing of Varane represents a major coup.
They’ve managed to land the 28-year-old a decade after Sir Alex Ferguson first tried to bring him to Old Trafford, where he eventually missed out to Real Madrid.
United are poised to deploy Varane alongside Harry Maguire, in a pairing that has the potential to be the best the Premier League has to offer.
And The Athletic have shed some light on the France international and what he’ll bring to the Red Devils going forward.
It’s claimed by the publication that Varane was offered the chance to address fans in French, rather than English.
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
The Red Devils chose to do things the old fashioned way by having the four-time Champions League winner walk out onto the pitch and hold the club’s jersey.
He received a magnificent reception from supporters, who will now be hoping he can propel them to Premier League title glory.
United have had to go without the prize every year since Ferguson’s retirement in 2013 - but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is hopeful he can be the ticket to the prize they covet most.
Varane recently explained his decision to join United, saying: “Manchester United is one of the most iconic clubs in world football and the chance to come here and play in the Premier League is something I couldn’t turn down.
Raphael Varane penned a four-year contract at Man Utd (Image: GETTY)
“There is a lot more that I want to achieve in my career and I know I’m joining a squad full of great players who will all have the same determination to win matches and trophies.
“Having spoken to the manager I can see how much progress has been made over the last few seasons and I now join a group ready to play at the highest level.
“I want to make an impact here and I will give everything to become part of this club’s illustrious history.”
And Solskjaer, speaking after United hammered Leeds, admitted he was delighted with the Red Devils’ latest acquisition.
“I’m absolutely delighted that we have managed to secure one of the best defenders in the world over the last 10 years,” he said.
Trending
“Raphael is a proven winner who we have tracked over a long period of time and we know just how much of a dedicated professional he is.
“We have great depth of international defenders and he will add his immense skill set and leadership to that group.
“He is a unique defender with a rare combination of top-level attributes that I know will rub off on our younger players.
“He has won everything there is to win but I know that he is still determined to succeed, I can’t wait to welcome him into the squad.”
Varane could make his debut when United lock horns with Southampton on Sunday.
And they’ll be hoping for a repeat of what happened last season.
Edinson Cavani scored twice after coming off the bench to secure a 3-2 victory after the Red Devils had fallen 2-0 down.