Real Madrid have suffered no shortage of injuries this season. Several key players have gone down for the year as Los Blancos continue to play at the highest level of European football. Another club suffering from a slew of injuries is Manchester United. According to reports from Spanish outlet COPE, and Rob Dawson of ESPNFC, there is a chance that Raphael Varane could end up switching between the two clubs.
Raphael Varane Returning to Real Madrid?
Erik ten Hag Wants to Keep Varane
Dawson’s article for ESPNFC stated that “Erik ten Hag wants to keep Raphael Varane at Manchester United.” Admittedly, the journalist would later cover how the veteran French defender has been linked to a move away from Old Trafford in January. This comes after the former Champions League and World Cup winner received praise from the Dutch manager for his performance on the pitch.
COPE reported that Madrid centre-back David Alaba’s season-ending ACL injury has brought the club into the market for a defender. Varane is described as “Another possible reinforcement.” The article further clarifies that Carlo Ancelotti’s club “have all avenues open.” The Frenchman, a former Club World Cup champion with the Madridstas, is not the only player the Spanish side are looking at.
Future Uncertain, but a January Move Is Unlikely
While Madrid would want Varane next month, United will want to hold onto him until the summer. Dawson reported that the 30-year-old “has only recently won back his place in the team.” Injuries had previously left him sidelined. Mark Critchley also wrote a piece for The Athletic detailing the veteran’s importance in Ten Hag’s style of play.
Varane remains a coveted player in European football. A veteran of the French national team and two of the best clubs in the world, his defensive skills make him an asset wherever he plays. Called “one of the best in Europe,” he makes his mark in every game. The next seven months could determine whether he stays at United or moves back to Madrid.
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