José Mourinho’s admiration for Raphaël Varane has been no secret having tried to sign the Real Madrid centre-back on countless occasions, only to be told in no uncertain terms that Varane will stay in the Spanish capital.
Indeed Mourinho previously lauded the French international as one of the best centre-backs in the world, prior to the World Cup in Brazil.
I think he is the best young central defender in the world. Already I think he’s the best.
Such high praise from one of the finest managers in the world is not without foundation.
Varane’s technique, coupled with his ability to carry the ball out from the defence are assets identical to that of Everton’s John Stones. Moreover his raw pace and ability to read the game makes it extremely hard for opposing strikers to find space or run in behind.
Now it seems Varane owes Mourinho for his progression into arguably the finest young centre-half in world football as revealed by an interview with Le Journal du Dimanche.
During my second year at Madrid, Jose Mourinho gave me a kick up the backside. I wasn’t doing well, I wasn’t managing to do what he wanted me to out on the pitch. So he chided me, saying: ‘Why don’t you run in training?’ My first reaction was to mutter, ‘Oh come on…’ But I knew he was right, I had more to give.
Mourinho’s bold style has certainly attracted a number of headlines and has consequently split opinion amongst media and fans alike. Nevertheless, Varane feels Mourinho’s management helped to motivate him.
Mourinho doesn’t need to give long speeches. He’s direct and to the point. What he said to me was for my own good. Without regular pressure like that, I can tend to rest on my laurels.
