Manchester United Defender Varane Out with Muscle Injury
Manchester United have confirmed that central defender Raphael Varane will be sidelined for the next few weeks due to a muscle injury.
Raphael Varane’s Injury and Return Timeline
The French international has battled injuries throughout the season and faced a period on the bench as manager Erik ten Hag opted for other options in central defense. Varane believed to have sustained his latest injury during the 4-3 loss to Chelsea last week.
Manchester United released a statement regarding Raphael Varane’s absence: “Manchester United defender Raphael Varane will be out for the next few weeks with a muscle injury sustained during our game against Chelsea last week. The French World Cup winner is aiming to be back in action before the end of the season in May.”
This news comes as another blow to United’s already thin central defensive options, as fellow center-back Jonny Evans will also miss time with a muscle issue, although his return is expected sooner than Varane’s.
Varane’s Contract Situation and Potential Move
This injury setback coincides with ongoing speculation that the current season might be Varane’s last at Old Trafford. The 30-year-old World Cup winner is reportedly one of United’s highest earners, with a salary rumored to be around £340,000 per week.
His contract expires at the end of the season, and Manchester United are not interested in extending it at his current wage. Since Varane is unlikely to take a pay cut, he is expected to seek a new challenge elsewhere in the summer.
Varane has previously hinted at potentially ending his playing career with any of his three clubs: Real Madrid, Manchester United, or the French national team.
