Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has clarified that Raphael Varane’s recent presence on the bench is due to tactical considerations.
Despite being a consistent starter when fit last season, the French star has been benched in the last three matches.
The Dutch boss explained that there is internal competition, expressing satisfaction with the defensive combination of Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans in central defence.
Ten Hag mentioned that he would prefer to have either Maguire or Varane play on the right side, as the build-up play tends to be less fluid when one of them is positioned at left centre-back.
While talking to the club’s official website, the 53-year-old said:
“It’s tactical reasons why I choose these partnerships. I think Harry and Jonny did quite well. Last year, Harry didn’t play a lot.”
“So, I was very happy with Rapha’s performance, and I have always been happy with his performance. But, in this moment, Harry is playing very good. There is internal competition.”
“Ideally [either Maguire or Varane would play on the right side]. But there are moments in games or in certain games they can play together.”
The manager further explained that both Evans and Lindelof, being right-footed, can adeptly play on the left side and create the right angles.
While predictions initially pointed to Varane partnering with Maguire in the central defence, Ten Hag’s remarks hint that Lindelof might be chosen instead.
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If this scenario unfolds, it could raise more concerns about the former Real Madrid star’s future with Man United, as he may not be happy with a bench role heading into the New Year.
It remains to be seen whether the 30-year-old’s current status at Old Trafford changes as the Premier League heads into its most busy schedule of the year.
