Manchester United had their defense to thank after falling to 10 men just after the hour mark during their league game against Crystal Palace on Saturday.
The Red Devils beat the visitors’ late attack to take three crucial points against Patrick Vieira’s men at Old Trafford.
Once again, the central defender pairing of Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martínez would prove to be a key cog in the United machine, further illustrating their importance to the team with another dominant defensive performance.
Varane, 29, has made headlines again by announcing his sudden retirement from international football, a decision that took most people by surprise.
The former Real Madrid centre-back has 93 caps for the French national team, during which time he has scored five goals for Les Bleus, and was an integral part of their 2018 World Cup-winning side in Russia.
Varane also played a crucial role in Qatar in helping his country reach successive World Cup finals, but could only watch helplessly as the French succumbed to a 4-2 loss against Argentina on penalties.
Speaking in an interview with French channel Canal +, which will be released in full later today, according to Athletic, Varane said: “I gave it my all, physically and mentally. But the highest level is like a washing machine, you play all the time and never stop.
“We have overloaded schedules and we play non-stop. At this moment, I feel that I am suffocating and that (Varane) the player is devouring (Varane) the man”.
United manager Erik ten Hag also spoke about Varane’s withdrawal during the press conference prior to the Palace match.
“Yes, for United, I think it’s good news. I think Rapha has achieved it all, in international football and at the club.
“I think it’s amazing what he’s accomplished. Great respect (to him) and I am happy that he is now putting all his energy and his experience into our team.
“Rapha has experience, he makes his own decisions, of course, about it. But he gave me the information that he intended to do this, yes.
“I can only express my deep respect for his career thus far.”
Varane has struggled with a series of nagging injuries in recent seasons, and this monumental, if bittersweet, decision could extend his career by a couple of seasons.
Their excellent form for United this term is one of the key reasons why the Red Devils have been dominant on multiple fronts, competing for four trophies, hoping to end a trophy-free period of more than half a decade.
Varane has represented his country with dignity and grace at the highest level, and he can walk away with his head held high.
The Frenchman will always be remembered as one of the best defenders of the famous French jersey, and his legacy will always be synonymous with success and excellence.
Good luck on your new journey, Raphaël!
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