In the aftermath of Manchester United’s disappointing exit from the Champions League, the focus shifts to the intriguing narrative surrounding Raphael Varane and his perceived role in the team under manager Erik ten Hag. Despite the setback, the French defender’s standout performance against Bayern Munich has ignited conversations about Ten Hag’s previous justifications for keeping him on the bench.
Erik ten Hag Varane Decision
With Manchester United grappling with 12 losses this season, a stark contrast to the previous campaign, the anticipation for the upcoming clash against Liverpool is overshadowed by concerns about the fitness of key defenders Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw. The potential absence of these two stalwarts presents a challenge that Ten Hag may have to address by fielding a makeshift defense.
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However, the silver lining from the Bayern defeat was the commendable performance of Raphael Varane, who was reinstated into the starting lineup after an 11-game hiatus. Ten Hag’s explanation for Varane’s limited playing time had centered around tactical preferences, specifically his purported suitability for the right side—a position currently occupied by the in-form Maguire.
Despite Maguire’s stellar contributions, questions arise about the validity of Ten Hag’s reasoning. Varane’s versatility should not be discounted, as he demonstrated proficiency in the left center-back position against Bayern. The fact that he continued in that role even after the substitution of Jonny Evans for Maguire added an intriguing layer to Ten Hag’s tactical decisions.
It's hard to believe Ten Hag's excuse about Raphael Varane #mufc https://t.co/O9V15UE4P9 pic.twitter.com/VZtRAydrIG
— Man United News (@ManUtdMEN) December 13, 2023
The skepticism deepens when considering the frequency of Varane’s absence throughout the season, attributed to factors ranging from fitness issues to illness and a sore back. The revelation that Manchester United is open to offers for Varane in the upcoming transfer window adds another layer of uncertainty to his future with the club. However, the recent defensive injury setbacks might alter the immediate plans for his departure.
As the team braces for the Liverpool clash, the circumstances surrounding Varane’s exclusion for ‘tactical reasons’ seem increasingly questionable. With Maguire potentially sidelined, Varane’s inclusion becomes a compelling prospect. The juxtaposition of Ten Hag’s pre-match explanations and the in-game decisions raises eyebrows, making it imperative to reevaluate the manager’s stance on Varane’s role within the team.
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In conclusion, the evolving narrative around Raphael Varane and Erik ten Hag’s decisions has added intrigue to Manchester United’s season. As the team navigates a challenging period, Varane’s unexpected run in the starting lineup could reshape perceptions and potentially impact his future at the club.