Erik ten Hag Denies Rift with Raphael Varane as Manchester United Star Struggles for Game Time

Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, has dismissed any speculation of a rift between him and Raphael Varane. The French international has been struggling for game time recently, but ten Hag insists that it is purely a tactical decision.

Varane’s Formidable Partnership with Lisandro Martinez

Last season, Varane formed a formidable partnership with Lisandro Martinez, which was considered one of the club’s most reliable defensive pairings since the days of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic.

However, Martinez is currently sidelined until December, and Varane has been struggling to find his form this season. In recent weeks, Harry Maguire and Johnny Evans have formed their own partnership at the back.

Lack of Starts for Varane

Varane has only started one of United’s last seven games and was left out of the derby against Manchester City for tactical reasons. He replaced the injured Evans early on against FC Copenhagen but struggled against the Danish champions.

Ten Hag emphasized that there is no falling out between him and Varane, attributing his lack of starts to the importance of effective partnerships in the defense. Maguire’s resurgence at Old Trafford has also played a significant role in the defensive set up this season.

“Absolutely not,” Ten Hag said when asked about any wider issue between him and Varane. “As I said, it is about tactical reasons why I chose these partnerships. I think Harry and Jonny did well.”

Potential Return for Varane

Varane will be hoping to return to the side against Luton on Saturday, with Evans ruled out. However, the availability of Victor Lindelof means that his inclusion is not guaranteed.

Ten Hag acknowledged that there are moments in certain games where Maguire and Varane can play together, but he believes the build-up is not as fluid when one of them plays from the left center-back position. He highlighted the comfort and ability of players like Licha, Luke Shaw, Jonny Evans, and Victor Lindelof to play with their left foot and create better formations.

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