Raphael Varane Sidelined for Manchester United’s Clash with Chelsea Due to Back Problem
Raphael Varane, the World Cup winner, has been excluded from the Manchester United squad for their match against Chelsea due to a back problem. Varane has lost his place in Erik ten Hag’s line-up and has only started one of the team’s last 11 matches.
Back Problem Forces Varane Out of Squad
Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof were chosen for the starting XI against Chelsea, while Varane was not even included on the substitutes’ bench. However, his absence from the squad is due to a sore back.
Varane’s Limited Game Time
Varane has formed a strong partnership with Lisandro Martinez in United’s defense, but he has only started seven games in all competitions this season. Despite his lack of game time, recent reports suggest that Varane is not actively seeking to leave the club, although Bayern Munich is monitoring his situation.
Rashford and Martial Also Absent from Team
Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial were also missing from the team facing Chelsea after their disappointing performances in the defeat to Newcastle United. Rasmus Hojlund and Antony were brought in to replace them against Chelsea.
Ten Hag Plays Down Rift with Varane
Despite Varane’s limited playing time, Erik ten Hag has downplayed any rumors of a rift between him and the Frenchman. Ten Hag attributes Varane’s reduced time on the pitch to Harry Maguire’s return to form.
Squad Rotation and Changes
Ten Hag explained that the changes made for the Chelsea match were part of squad rotation and not a direct reaction to the previous defeat. Kobbie Mainoo, an 18-year-old midfielder, started the last two league games, while Aaron Wan-Bissaka was also dropped from the side.
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