Raphaël Varane sends Man United fans message about INEOS after departure

Raphaël Varane has confirmed that he will be leaving Manchester United when his contract expires at the end of the season.

Varane, 30, joined United in the summer of 2021 and was unveiled before the club’s opening day fixture against Leeds, which they won 5-1.

It was a monumental signing at the time for Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s team. The former Real Madrid defender made his debut away at Wolves, where he assisted Mason Greenwood’s winning goal.

Now, three years later, it has been confirmed that the French defender will be departing after a mixed time at Old Trafford.

“Raphael Varane has confirmed he will leave Manchester United in the summer, upon the expiry of his contract, following three seasons at Old Trafford,” a club statement read.

“Everybody at United thanks Rapha for his service and wishes him well for the future.”

When fit, Varane has been one of the club’s best defenders. Last season, he sparked a special relationship with Lisandro Martínez, which helped make Old Trafford a fortress once again.

However, his injury concerns led to the club wanting to renegotiate terms on his £340,000-a-week deal and an agreement could not be found.

In a video uploaded by the defender on Tuesday morning, he spoke about his time with the club and confirmed that he would be at the last game of the season at Old Trafford on Wednesday night despite being injured.

He also sent supporters a clear message about INEOS, who have taken over operations at the club since Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s stake was ratified.

“Despite the fact we had a difficult season, I’m very positive for the future,” said Varane.

“The new owners are coming with a clear plan and a great strategy.”

While the defender will not be at Old Trafford for the revolution under INEOS, he seems confident that they will be able to turn things around.