Raphael Varane returns to training with France after contracting a virus that put his participation in the World Cup final in doubt.
???? ONLY IN:
Raphaël Varane rejoined the team this afternoon after spending Friday in his room and is expected to train as normal tonight. @lequipe ????????
— UtdPlug (@UtdPlug) December 17, 2022
Varane spent Friday in his hotel room so as not to spread the virus that the French squad has traveled.
As many as five French players have suffered flu-like symptoms in the build-up to the final, with Varane the last to have to self-isolate.
However, the United centre-back is fit and ready to train today, in preparation for the final against Argentina.
This will be a great relief for Didier Deschamps, with Varane as the most important cog in his defensive wheel.
It will also be good news for Erik ten Hag, with Varane equally important to United’s cause.
Varane has established a formidable relationship with Argentine Lisandro MartÃnez at Old Trafford and the two will meet tomorrow in the final.
Varane has not played for United since being injured at Stamford Bridge in October, but looks back on his prime, performing well in knockout games for the French.
The classy center midfielder will hope to add to his incredible haul of trophies by collecting his second World Cup winner’s medal in Qatar. He will make history by becoming the only player in history to win four Champions Leagues and two World Cups.
Whatever the outcome of the final, United are guaranteed a 2022 World Cup winner will return to Old Trafford.
Both Varane and Martinez are expected to be available again for Ten Hag in the New Year, when United launch their assault on a top-four finish in the Premier League.
