. Manchester, UK
Raphael Varane unveiled as Manchester United player at Old Trafford | Watch
Raphael Varane joined Manchester United from Real Madrid. (Photo credit: Twitter/ChampionsLeague)
- Raphael Varane joined United on a four-year deal until June 2025
- He comes after winning four Champions League titles with Real Madrid
- United face Leeds in their first Premier League clash
Former Real Madrid defender, four-time Champions League winner, Raphael Varane was unveiled as a Manchester United player for the first time at Old Trafford, minutes before the team's Premier League clash versus Leeds United. Riding on midfielder Bruno Fernandes' goal United lead Leeds 1-0 by half-time.
Varane has joined United on a four-year deal until June 2025 for a fee believed to be around £41m including add-ons. He got a typical 'Old Trafford Welcome' with fans chanting all around the iconic stadium.
Raphael Varane said, “Manchester United is one of the most iconic clubs in world football and the chance to come here and play in the Premier League is something I couldn’t turn down.
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“There is a lot more that I want to achieve in my career and I know I’m joining a squad full of great players who will all have the same determination to win matches and trophies. Having spoken to the manager I can see how much progress has been made over the last few seasons and I now join a group ready to play at the highest level. I want to make an impact here and I will give everything to become part of this club’s illustrious history.”
The 28-year-old has amassed over 19 trophies in his career so far, including four Champions Leagues, three Spanish titles and the 2018 World Cup. He has represented the French team 79 times, including their Euro 2020 campaign.
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United manager Gunnar Solskjaer said, “I’m absolutely delighted that we have managed to secure one of the best defenders in the world over the last 10 years. Raphaël is a proven winner who we have tracked over a long period of time and we know just how much of a dedicated professional he is.
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“We have great depth of international defenders and he will add his immense skill set and leadership to that group. He is a unique defender with a rare combination of top-level attributes that I know will rub off on our younger players.
“He has won everything there is to win but I know that he is still determined to succeed, I can’t wait to welcome him into the squad.”