While Manchester United is catching up in the competition for European qualifying, Erik ten Hag’s team also needs to watch out for being taken advantage of in the transfer market.
Although Raphael Varane came in from the cold to impress in Manchester United’s draw with Liverpool, United still faces the prospect of losing the French international for free.
In recent weeks, the 30-year-old has covered for Harry Maguire; but, with Maguire sidelined due to injury, he combined with Jonny Evans at the back at Anfield. Liverpool had 34 shots on goal, but United’s goalie and defense made sure there was no scoring in the match.
Despite prior rumors indicating that his contract extended until 2025, Varane’s contract expires at the end of the current campaign. Unless United initiates an extension before then, Varane will be free to speak with prospective suitors in January. However, having been reminded of the former Real Madrid player’s abilities, manager Erik ten Hag might find himself pressing for an extension of the defender’s contract.
Following the match, Varane was one of three players that former United defender David May singled out for admiration on MUTV. “Varane is simply amazing. Evans is exceptional. The Champions League winner added, “[Kobbie] Mainoo was a young kid in midfield, he was fantastic,” according to United in Focus.
“Good luck to the boys.” United deserved to win the game because they played a brilliant defense. The manager will be happy with it overall, but he or she could be frustrated that we didn’t win the game because we had several opportunities in the second half.
“We should build on the really excellent performances that were given.” It was necessary for the performance to be extremely professional. That ball was drawn to Raphael Varane like a magnet.
BBC commentator Alan Shearer was likewise gushing over Varane. He complimented Ten Hag’s team on their unity and gave special attention to the middle defensive duo.
The former England striker remarked, “All the talk beforehand was about how many they would win by, but in the end they were very flat up front.” “Liverpool did not really move United’s back four around, or at least did it nowhere near as much as we thought they might do – yes, United did well defensively but Liverpool played into their hands a lot of the time with the number of crosses they put in that were dealt with by Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans.”
Ten Hag predicted that Maguire’s injury wouldn’t keep him out for very long, which would allow the former club captain to make a comeback against the Hammers. But Varane’s performance at Anfield has given the boss some short- and long-term food for thought.