Published on 27 Oct 2022 12:44 am (UK Time)
Varane injured
World Cup winner Raphael Varane will not play until the World Cup, Erik Ten Hag has confirmed.
The Manchester United box said “Varane isn’t in the squad, he will be out certainly until the World Cup. He will not play in this block for Manchester United.”
When asked if Varane would be fit for the World Cup, he told reporters “He will not play in this block for Manchester United.
“I think he can play in the World Cup, but we have to see how it develops and how his rehab develops.”
This serves as a huge blow to Manchester United with Varane in fine form for the Reds since missing the first part of the season due to a previous injury.
Varane departed the game in tears after a missed tackle saw him stretch awkwardly and it is believed his knee was the area of concern.
Ronaldo returns
Ten Hag also confirmed Cristiano Ronaldo will return to Manchester United’s squad ahead of Thursday’s Europa League game against Sheriff Tiraspol.
Ronaldo had missed the side’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea after refusing to be brought on as a substitute in Manchester United’s 2-0 home win over Tottenham and leaving Old Trafford early.
The 37-year-old did train on Tuesday after being excluded from first-team training.
Ten Hag dismissed any further concern and told the press: “I think we said everything and answered all the questions.
“He was out for one game and now he is back in the squad as usual.
“It’s done. He’s back. Let’s focus on the game.”
Other injuries
Ten Hag also confirmed Harry Maguire, Donny van de Beek and Aaron Wan Bissaka are also back in the Manchester United squad.
Anthony Martial is still injured and will not be available.
Ten Hag said: “Harry, Donny and Aaron are all in training and preparing for Thursday’s game.
“After training [on Wednesday] I will make a decision.”
Much has been made of Harry Maguire’s form and his future at Manchester United, but Ten Hag backed him in today’s press conference:
“He always will play an important role, He was injured.
“I’m happy he is on the way back so now he has to get back into games.
“I understand the interest (in his game time for England) but we especially look at Manchester United.
“We have to get the right results and performances, so that is the main objective I have.”
