Incredible Raphaël Varane stat shows his importance to Manchester United

Raphaël Varane played in Manchester United’s 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest just nine days after playing in the World Cup final.

The Frenchman played 113 minutes in the final before coming off ahead of the heartbreak for his nation on penalties.

With Lisandro Martinez still unavailable, and illness affecting both Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelöf, United were desperate.

Varane returned and started alongside Luke Shaw in the centre of defence and kept a clean sheet in a dominant display at Old Trafford.

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His appearance meant that he was the first player to appear in the 2022 World Cup final to play for his club afterwards.

“Rapha showed his personality, helping Manchester United, he has taken responsibility to play and he did really well,” Ten Hag told reporters following the Premier League victory.

It was United’s 11th clean sheet so far this season, however, a more specific statistic has showcased the importance of the French defender.

It was highlighted that The Reds have conceded just four goals whilst Varane has been on the pitch this season — once against Liverpool, once against Arsenal and twice against Manchester City.

United have conceded 26 goals so far this season. Although, 10 of those have come in two games — against Man City and Brentford.

The importance of the former Real Madrid defender is clear and even though Luke Shaw deputised well in the centre of defence, the return of his regular partner Martinez will be well anticipated.