Manchester United have received a boost from reports on the progress of Raphael Varane from a thigh injury, as he could feature for France.
According to L’Equipe, Raphael Varane could make it to the France squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup after making progress in his recovery from the thigh injury he suffered a few weeks ago. He could be fit and resume training with Manchester United this week.
Raphael Varane cut a sorry figure on October 22 when Manchester United visited Stamford Bridge. The game ended in an eventual draw, but the defender clouded the result after getting injured in the second half.
As Varane left the field in tears, the major concerns were regarding his participation in the upcoming World Cup in Qatar. It was easy to assume he won’t make it to the France squad going by his demeanour, as he added to Didier Deschamps’s woes.
France are already without influential midfield duo N’Golo Kante and Paul Pogba for the Qatar showdown, and losing Varane would be a blow for Deschamps. Les Bleus are vying to retain their crown, and it would not be easy without the trio.
Recent reports suggest the news around Varane is positive, and the defender could be fit for the World Cup. Updates on the French centre-back’s injury indicate he could return to Manchester United training this week after resuming light work on the treadmill.
Varane is not expected to participate in Manchester United’s two fixtures before the World Cup break. The Red Devils take on Aston Villa in the EFL Cup and Fulham in their last Premier League fixture before the end of December. With Varane, fans will have to wait until Wednesday to know his fate with France.
Deschamps will soon name his final squad for the World Cup, and many expect the defender to feature. While Varane is a key figure for France, other capable stars can fill his shoes if needed. Arsenal’s William Saliba could be considered as the natural replacement for the experienced defender. France also have other players like Presnel Kimpembe to keep the strength at the back.
