Manchester United fans have sent Raphael Varane messages of good luck ahead of his World Cup semi-final with France against Morocco, with some less than surprised by his inclusion in the starting XI.
The defender missed the opening game for his country in Qatar as his teammates earned an impressive win over Australia but has started every game since, including the 2-1 win over England in the quarter-finals. The 29-year-old faced a race against time to be fit and ready for the tournament after picking up a knee injury in United’s draw with Chelsea in October but appears to have put his injury fears behind him with an impressive tournament at the heart of France's defence.
He is yet to keep a clean sheet this World Cup and captained the side in their 1-0 group stage loss to Tunisia as the holders fielded a much-changed side. But Varane is an integral part of Les Bleus’ set-up, as he was in 2018 when the country lifted the trophy.
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A staple of Erik ten Hag's plans, it was no surprise for United fans to see him named in the line-up against Morocco on Wednesday evening. He partnered Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate at the back with Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano ruled out with illness.
Adrien Rabiot, who has played well this tournament, has also missed out on a place in Didier Deschamps' starting XI for the same reason. However, France remain the strong favourites and many United fans sent good luck messages to Varane.
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