The French defender admits that it was difficult saying “no” to the Special One.

Jose Mourinho is the manager who played a key role in Raphael Varane’s rise to prominence, so it came as little surprise that the Portuguese tactician was keen on luring the Frenchman to Manchester United.

The Special One targeted the promising center-back over the summer in hopes of bolstering the Red Devils' back four. Unfortunately for the controversial manager, Varane ignored the interest and opted for a Santiago Bernabeu stay.

Talking to Canal+ (as per Foot Mercato), the 23-year-old admitted that it was very difficult to snub calls from Mourinho and the 20-time English Premier League winners.

"Of course it's flattering. Manchester United are a very big club. But from the moment when Madrid and I are in sync on my project, there's no questions to ask yourself,"

"I have always said I feel good in Madrid. It's not easy to say 'No' to Jose Mourinho, but you have to weigh up the pros and the cons. We're men, we have decisions to make and that's how it is."

Varane would definitely have been a starter had he chosen Old Trafford. Now, he must bide his time in order to usurp either Sergio Ramos or Pepe at the heart of Los Blancos’ defense.

However, leaving the 11-time Champions League winners was never a question for the former Lens ace. Why? The trust and support from Zinedine Zidane made a Real Madrid exit unthinkable.

"It was really that trust, that support which was important for me, and when I was reassured on that point, there was no question of it any more,” Varane added.

 

Match details, result and original broadcast info

Belarus 0 - 0 France

September 6, 2016 2:45pmBorisov Arena (Barysaw (Borisov))

This match has ended. Below are the original Live broadcast details for this match.

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