Varane shares his advice for winning trophies

The imperious centre-back is one of the most decorated players in the game with a long list of honours that includes four Champions Leagues, three La Liga titles and the World Cup. 

Aged 29, Varane is enjoying the prime years of his career and, without doubt, he is experiencing an excellent season as part of an exciting Erik ten Hag side that is determined to lift silverware this campaign. 

This evening, the Reds will face Nottingham Forest in a Carabao Cup semi-final second leg at Old Trafford with a place in this month’s final against Newcastle United at Wembley up for grabs. 

As somebody who has achieved so much in his career, Varane knows how to win trophies and our France international has provided us with a fascinating assessment of what it takes. 

“I think we have to believe, I think we need that confidence for winning trophies,” says Rapha. “I think we are already improving a lot and we are in a good moment.

“We have to stay calm but be ambitious at the same time. I think we are much better now and we have to keep going.”

Varane has repeatedly praised the ‘special connection’ that our squad has developed with the fans and he is adamant that teams cannot win trophies without that support from the crowd. 

“Yeah, definitely,” he says. “I think we have the same objective, we want to win trophies.

“I think we are pulling in the same direction so I think we can create some special atmospheres, some special emotions, adrenaline on the pitch, and that is very helpful to win trophies.”

A positive mood in the dressing room is also fundamental, as Varane points out.

“Yeah, I think when you are happy, you are better so I think when we finish a game, when we win a great battle, I think for the spirit of the team it is something special. 

“And obviously with a great atmosphere, you feel even more proud of your success and that creates a positive dynamic. So I think for the rest of the season and for the future, that will be very helpful.”

As Varane approaches his 50th United appearance – he’s currently on 46 – the former Real Madrid man admits he is absolutely loving life at Old Trafford and feels excited about our future. 

“I feel very happy, it is a great experience for me, I am really enjoying every moment at this great club and I feel good with my team-mates.

“I am really enjoying it. I hope for the future, we will keep going with our improvement and hopefully winning great victories, and be happy with our fans.”