Paul Scholes, the former Manchester United midfielder, has raised concerns about Raphael Varane’s lack of speed following their 4-3 loss to FC Copenhagen in the Champions League on Wednesday.
Varane, who had been sidelined with an injury since the end of August, had only one start in the Premier League. Manchester United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, has shown a preference for Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans over the 30-year-old.
While Maguire and Evans were in the starting lineup once again, Varane was introduced earlier than planned because of Evans’ early injury departure.
“I was somewhat surprised by the selection, especially since he brought Varane into the team – Jonny was a free transfer,” Scholes commented on TNT Sports.
He added, “I think no matter which center-back he chooses, they need to play a style of football that capitalizes on counter-attacks because none of them are particularly fast. Varane used to be quick, but is he losing some of his speed? They have to rely on their pace to some extent.”