Erik ten Hag identifies return date giving Manchester United an injury boost for Raphael Varane
.webp "Erik ten Hag identifies return date giving Manchester United an injury boost for Raphael Varane")
A key player's imminent return has provided Manchester United with a significant injury advantage ahead of their upcoming FA Cup final against Manchester City.
The team secured their spot in the final after defeating Brighton on penalties at Wembley Stadium last Sunday, marking their second cup final appearance of the year.
Although there were numerous opportunities for both teams to score, the match concluded with a scoreless draw even after extra time. However, Erik ten Hag's team emerged victorious with a 7-6 win on penalties.
Due to Harry Maguire's suspension and injuries to Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane, the Red Devils had to field a makeshift back four which had Luke Shaw paired with Victor Lindelof in the center-back position.
Despite the previous injury to Raphael Varane, Ten Hag expressed optimism after the game, stating that the Frenchman might be fully recovered and available to play against their arch-rivals City in the final.
During an interview with Talksport, he said: "I think so. Yeah. Varane, for the cup final, he can return."
This news will certainly bring relief to United fans, as Raphael Varane's inclusion in the backline would provide much-needed experience. The four-time Champions League winner could prove to be an asset for the team in the final.
In 2021, the 29-year-old Raphael Varane joined Old Trafford from the renowned Spanish club Real Madrid for an initial fee of £34m. This season, he has formed an imposing defensive duo with Lisandro Martinez.
Varane was injured during United's Europa League quarter-final first leg against Sevilla, leading to speculation that he might face an extended period on the sidelines.
Nonetheless, the club subsequently confirmed that he would only be out for "a few weeks." As the final against City is scheduled for June, it is probable that Varane will have recovered by then.
Erik ten Hag's debut season in the Premier League has been successful so far. Although the Red Devils were eliminated from the Europa League, they are on track to qualify for next season's Champions League and have already won the Carabao Cup.
The upcoming final against City will be the first time a Manchester derby takes place in a cup final. City is still in the running to win a prestigious treble, so United will undoubtedly want to do everything in their power to prevent them from achieving this feat.
Okeke George Chijioke
When you don't see Okeke George blogging, he sure will engage him self in sporting activities.
