Manchester United defender Raphael Varane was seen going through a series of individual drills during France’s first training session in Doha on Thursday evening.
Raphael was a key part of the France side that lifted the trophy in 2018 and manager Didier Deschamps will no doubt be keen to have the experienced defender available for selection again as soon as possible.
After their opening match against Australia in Al Wakrah, Les Bleus face another of their group-stage opponents from four years ago in the form of Denmark (26 November), before their third and final game of the phase versus Tunisia (30 November).
After their opening match against Australia in Al Wakrah, Les Bleus face another of their group-stage opponents from four years ago in the form of Denmark (26 November), before their third and final game of the phase versus Tunisia (30 November).
On Monday, Deschamps spoke about Varane’s fitness, admitting that he expects the United man to be available from the start of their campaign.
“He is in the process. He accentuated his athletic work. He touched the ball again,”he said, in a press conference before the team flew to Qatar.
“There are still some stages he has to pass until Thursday [yesterday, their first training session in the host country].
”He is okay. He is in good spirits and feels good sensations. He is supposed to be available for the first game.“
It remains to be seen when Raphael will return to team training with the current World champions, as their preparations for matchday one continue, with the latest reports claiming he will not join the main group session on Friday evening.