Erik ten Hag provides update on Raphael Varane fitness

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 26 October 2022

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag says that Raphael Varane will not be available to represent the club until after the World Cup.

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has revealed that Raphael Varane will not be available to represent the Red Devils until after the 2022 World Cup.

The centre-back was in tears when he picked up an injury against Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday.

Initially, it appeared that the defender had suffered damage to his ankle or knee, but a problem with the France international's hamstring forced him off the field at Stamford Bridge.

A recent report claimed that Varane would be on the sidelines for around four weeks, ruling him out of Man United's games before the World Cup.

Ten Hag has now confirmed that the former Real Madrid defender will miss the upcoming matches against Sheriff Tiraspol, West Ham United, Real Sociedad, Aston Villa (twice) and Fulham.

Manchester United's Raphael Varane goes off injured against Chelsea on October 22, 2022 © Reuters

However, the Dutchman believes that the 29-year-old has a chance of representing his country at the World Cup in Qatar, with the Blues beginning their campaign against Australia on November 22.

"Rapha Varane isn't in the squad, so he will be out, certainly until the World Cup, so we will not play in this block for Man United," Ten Hag told reporters ahead of Thursday's clash with Sheriff.

"I think so (he will be fit for the World Cup), but the prognosis, we have to wait and see how it develops, how his rehab develops."

France will take on Australia, Denmark and Tunisia in the group stage of the World Cup, and Varane is expected to be a starter for Didier Deschamps's side if he is available for selection.

France's Raphael Varane after sustaining an injury against Spain in the Nations League in October 2021 © Reuters

Varane has been a vital player for Man United this season, making 11 appearances in all competitions, including 10 outings in the Premier League.

The Frenchman has formed an impressive partnership with Lisandro Martinez in the middle of his side's defence, but he will now not be back for the Red Devils until December.

Varane had a number of injury problems for Man United last term, while he also spent a period out earlier this month due to an ankle issue that he picked up against Manchester City.

Ten Hag's side will be back in action after the World Cup against Nottingham Forest on December 27, while they will finish the year away to Wolverhampton Wanderers four days later.