Raphael Varane issues demand to Man Utd teammates ahead of Premier League return

Raphael Varane has instructed his Manchester United teammates to continue "fighting on the pitch" as they search for a fifth Premier League victory on the bounce.

The Red Devils recovered from their disastrous start to the season by putting together an impressive winning run, beating Arsenal 3-1 in their most recent domestic outing. Varane's performances at the heart of defence have been crucial to United's resurgence, as he has formed a rock-solid partnership with summer arrival Lisandro Martinez.

Erik ten Hag's side have conceded just two goals in the four league games Varane has started, while he also helped United keep a clean sheet in their Europa League victory over Sheriff Tiraspol. The Frenchman looks back to his best after a challenging debut season at Old Trafford following his £42million transfer from Real Madrid in the summer of 2021.

Varane has no doubt he is reaping the rewards of taking part in a full pre-season programme with his teammates - something he did not have the luxury of last year. "I had a complete pre-season, I was able to work well on the physical level and I continue," he told a France press conference. "I feel better and it shows on the ground."

The 29-year-old was regarded as one of the finest centre-backs in the world when he made the move to United, and Ten Hag will be delighted the player is replicating his best form this season. Varane is determined to maintain his levels of performance and issued a rousing message to his teammates.

"At the start of the season, we had to fight on the pitch, we have to continue like that," he added. The Red Devils return to action on Sunday as they travel to local rivals and defending Premier League champions Manchester City.

Where does Raphael Varane rank among the best centre-backs in the Premier League? Have your say in the comments!

The centre-back partnership of Varane and Martinez standing firm will be vital to United's hopes of leaving the Etihad with at least a point. The latter has already heaped praise on his defensive colleague, hailing him as a "legend" of the game.

"Everyone knows how good he is. He is a legend for me," the Argentine said of Varane after the win over Sheriff. "I'm really happy to play with him at the back, but every player in the team is ready to play.

"Every player is doing well and working hard. That's the important point. It's not just Varane, it is Harry [Maguire], it is Luke Shaw, it is Donny van de Beek, it is everyone. Everyone is ready, that is the good point [of where we are] as a team."

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