Ten Hag reacts to suggestions Raphael Varane could leave Manchester United

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag was asked to shed light on Raphael Varane’s situation at Old Trafford ahead of his side’s trip to Everton.

The Frenchman is no longer the Dutch coach’s preferred centre-back, having only mustered four Premier League starts so far this season. Jonny Evans, 35, has started five league games, while Harry Maguire is expected to bag his ninth consecutive start in all competitions against Everton over the weekend. The United boss described his decision to go with the pairing of Maguire and Evans as ‘tactical’ earlier this season.

In Evans’ absence due to an injury, Ten Hag opted to deploy Victor Lindelof alongside Maguire against Luton Town. The Swede scored the game’s only goal before the international break.

During the break, reports of the former Real Madrid’s potential exit in the upcoming winter window have been rife. Further, it has also been claimed that Varane’s relationship with the manager is practically broken down.

Ahead of the clash against Everton, Ten Hag addressed rumors regarding his situation, stating (via Manchester Evening News): “Rapha Varane: I don’t know what you’re talking about. It’s rumours. Very important player, but there’s internal competition and there should be at a top club, as we are.”

He continued: “And when you decide on two players who do brilliant – Raphael Varane and Harry Maguire – you also have to make a choice for that position.”

Considering Maguire’s form, Ten Hag’s decision seems reasonable and all Varane could do is continue showing his quality in training or cameo appearances as a substitute.