Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho has singled out Manchester United defender Raphael Varane as the player he cherished coaching the most.
Mourinho, known for his stints at several top European clubs, notably led Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013. During that period, French defender Varane was under his tutelage after joining Real Madrid from RC Lens in July 2011.
In an interview on a YouTube podcast hosted by Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand, Mourinho expressed his admiration for Varane’s qualities.
He emphasized his preference for coaching players who exhibit exceptional footballing skills, citing Varane as a prime example. Mourinho stated:
“The players I most enjoyed are the players that gave me everything. When you play a kid, the kid becomes your kid for life. I look to Varane at the end of his career. He is my kid.”
Varane amassed 360 appearances for Real Madrid before departing in 2021, contributing 17 goals and seven assists. Since joining Manchester United, he has featured in 85 matches for the Red Devils, registering two goals and an assist.
