Former Manchester United defender Raphael Varane believes there is a ‘huge issue’ in football when it comes to player welfare.
Raphael Varane signed for Manchester United in 2021 for an initial fee of £41 million. The Frenchman left Old Trafford upon the expiry of his contract in the summer of 2024.
The World Cup winner had endured many injuries during his time at United. That is the reason he never made a competitive appearance for Como last season before announcing his retirement.
Varane is now a board member for the Italian club as they sit fifth in Serie A, winning six of their first 13 matches this term.
The 32-year-old showed plenty of quality during his time at United, but persistent injury frustration often overshadowed that. He was a key member of the team when Erik ten Hag delivered success in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup.
Now, after retiring, Varane is getting time to reflect on his incredible career after playing for both Real Madrid and United.
Raphael Varane doing a draw for UEFA
Photo by Kristian Skeie – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
Raphael Varane is concerned about player welfare
Varane is concerned about how the football calendar can negatively impact elite players.
The French defender was forced to retire early due to injuries, but after spending the majority of his career playing at the highest level, he believes too much is being asked of footballers in the modern game.
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Varane made 479 appearances throughout his career for Real Madrid, United and RC Lens.
Speaking to French outlet Le Monde, Varane reflected on how he played for United just nine days after losing the 2022 World Cup final to Argentina.
Varane claims we’re losing quality as a result of prioritising the commercial side of the game.
“You know, nine days after the 2022 World Cup final [in Qatar], I played a match with Manchester United,” Varane said.
“I didn’t even have time to mourn the defeat [to Argentina in the final]. The schedule is a huge issue, because there are always more competitions being added. Football is now in overdrive. I understand it’s a business, but we’re losing quality as a spectacle.
“Either you don’t play at 100%, or you play like a robot. There are more physical injuries and, obviously, the impact on players’ mental health is significant.”
Another issue facing players in the modern game is potential burnout.
Man Utd have far fewer fixtures this season
After failing to qualify for Europe and getting knocked out of the Carabao Cup in the second round, United won’t be playing as many games this season.
That means there is more pressure on the players to finish in a much higher position in the league table.
United will also be involved in the FA Cup once the third round kicks off.
Despite having fewer games this season, United still faced a congested period of fixtures throughout December and January.
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The Reds take on West Ham on Thursday night and Wolves on the following Monday night.