Raphael Varane has become the first Manchester United player to voice his opinion on the Cristiano Ronaldo interview released this week.
The Frenchman has joined Les Bleus in preparation for the forthcoming World Cup, in which they will aim to lift the lucrative trophy again after becoming champions in Russia in 2018.
Varane sustained an injury against Chelsea last month in United’s 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge and was ruled out of club action until the international break. France manager Didier Deschamps still opted to call up the experienced centre-back and has since confirmed he will be available for the team’s first fixture against Australia on November 22.
Varane played with Ronaldo during their time at Real Madrid. They were part of one of the most successful eras in the club’s history and won three consecutive Champions League titles for the Spanish giants.
The Portugal international has made headlines yet again this week due to an “explosive” exclusive interview with Piers Morgan, which will air in full on Wednesday and Thursday. Snippets have been released showing Ronaldo expressing his lack of respect for Erik ten Hag, how he feels “betrayed” by the club and that he is being forced out of United, amongst other things.
United are waiting to hear the full interview before acknowledging the comments made.
Varane weighs in
Varane was asked about the situation by Europe 1 Sport, he responded: “Obviously it affects us. We follow what is happening and what is being said. We try to ease the situation in our own way, we try not to get too involved in it.
“What is happening at the media level in the big clubs in gaining a lot of momentum. When it’s a star like Cristiano Ronaldo, even more, so we try to take that with distancing, that is to say that we are not trying to change the situation alone, we are part of a collective.”
He added: “What I want is the best for my team so whatever the decision, as a player, we will accept it and give the best of ourselves.”
