There’s no denying that when Raphaël Varane left the game against Chelsea in tears, many Manchester United fans, and those of the France national team, thought the defender would miss the World Cup.
He never played for the Red Devils again prior to the tournament, instead focusing entirely on getting fit for the first game against Australia, which he will start on the bench for.
Unlike Karim Benzema, the Manchester United defender managed to pass enough tests to be considered ready by Didier Deschamps, who will be careful with his star centre-back, knowing he’d rather keep him fresh for the later rounds than rushing him back for the opener.
Either way, Varane is delighted to be part of the France squad for the World Cup, but admits he’s only there because of his determination.
He told Europe 1: “I was scared, but I worked a lot to be there and I continue to work. I will give everything to be 100% as soon as possible. I’m someone who works and who goes for it.”
The Manchester United defender also recalls that moment against Chelsea, and doesn’t regret letting his emotions show.
He added: “The high-level footballer knows how to fall, get up and go back to fighting. Emotions are part of our job and the more my career advances, the more I live my job intensely and am very happy about it.”
One of the more experienced players in the squad alongside Hugo Lloris, Varane knows some around him will look up to him, but he’s ready to ‘transmit his experience, try to reassure them and try to motivate’ the squad.
