‘Great season’ – Raphael Varane reflects on Erik ten Hag’s debut season with Manchester United – Man Utd News

Manchester United defender Raphael Varane believes the detailed instructions from Erik ten Hag helped the club to have a “great season”.

Speaking on Football Daily, Varane lauded the United manager. He said: “It’s been a great season with him.”

“From day one, he was clear in his reasoning and explanations of what he wanted from us and how he wanted us to play. 

“We’ve learnt his style and I think it’s come together well.”

The Red Devils are on the cusp of qualifying for the Champions League football next season. 

They have ended their six-year trophy by claiming the Carabao Cup and could do a domestic double by beating Man City in the FA Cup final.

“Leader” Raphael Varane crucial to Man Utd’s progress

The World-cup winning defender has enjoyed a fine campaign under Ten Hag. He has formed a great connection with Lisandro Martinez at the heart of the defence. 

David de Gea has kept the most clean sheets in the Premier League this season. It would not have been possible for him to achieve this feat without the astute defending showcased by Varane and Martinez.

Ten Hag did not take much time to prefer Varane ahead of Harry Maguire as the right-sided centre-back.

The Frenchman brings the leadership quality at the back that Maguire lacks. He organises the backline and brings passion to the pitch, which the Man United team has been missing for some time.

Ten Hag wants his team to play from the back. Besides being superb defensively, Varane is extremely comfortable with the ball at his feet, making him an ideal centre-back in Ten Hag’s system.

The only concern for the Dutchman is the injury-prone nature of the 30-year-old defender. 

If Varane can find a way to remain fit for a longer period, the manager will have one less thing to worry about.