The curtain is about to fall on Raphael Varane‘s Manchester United journey, as the decorated French defender confirmed his summer departure after three injury-plagued but memorable seasons at Old Trafford. This Crickex exclusive analysis dives deep into the implications of his exit, the void he leaves behind, and how Erik ten Hag’s squad must adapt moving forward.
The End of an Era: Varane’s Bittersweet United Story
Arriving in 2021 with sky-high expectations after winning 18 trophies at Real Madrid, Varane‘s £34m transfer was meant to solidify United’s backline for years to come. Yet as the 31-year-old emotionally stated on social media: “To wear that shirt has been an honor… this club will remain special to me for life.”
While injuries limited him to just 93 appearances (missing 43% of possible matches), his class shone through when fit:
- 2022/23 League Cup triumph: Anchored the defense in United’s first trophy in six years
- Elite positioning: Averaged 1.2 interceptions/90 in Premier League (top 8% among CBs)
- Big-game pedigree: Held Mbappé scoreless over two legs vs PSG in UCL
“Varane brought winning DNA,” notes Crickex analyst James Wilkinson. “His absence leaves a leadership vacuum beyond just defensive quality.”
Ten Hag’s Rebuilding Challenge: Who Steps Up?
With Varane departing and Harry Maguire’s future uncertain, United’s center-back options look thin:
| Player | Age | Contract Until | 23/24 PL Apps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lisandro Martínez | 26 | 2027 | 9 (injured) |
| Victor Lindelöf | 29 | 2025 | 17 |
| Willy Kambwala | 19 | 2025 | 3 |
Ten Hag hinted at summer reinforcements: “We’re planning carefully with the new owners. The strategy must be clear.” Potential targets include:
- Jean-Clair Todibo (Nice): Athletic, ball-playing profile
- Gonçalo Inácio (Sporting): Left-footed balance
- Antonio Silva (Benfica): Teenage phenom
Fernandes Future & Newcastle Preview
Amid Bayern Munich links, Ten Hag was adamant about Bruno Fernandes’ importance: “He creates the most chances in the Premier League. Absolutely vital to our project.” The Portuguese maestro has been involved in 22 goals this season (10G, 12A).
For Wednesday’s Newcastle clash:
- OUT: Varane (injured), Rashford (doubtful)
- RETURNING: Martínez (bench option)
- KEY BATTLE: Bruno vs Guimarães in midfield
The Road Ahead: Emotional Goodbye Awaits
Varane will get his farewell at Old Trafford’s final home game against Arsenal on May 12. As he poignantly noted: “This is home for my children. That connection never fades.”
For United, the challenge is clear – replace not just a defender, but a winner who understood what the badge represents. As Crickex sources indicate, this summer’s recruitment will define whether Ten Hag’s project sinks or swims.
What memories stand out from Varane’s time at United? Who should replace him? Share your thoughts below and follow Crickex for more exclusive analysis.
