Raphael Varane sends cryptic Manchester United hint after Erik ten Hag sacking

Raphael Varane has reacted on social media to Erik ten Hag's sacking at Manchester United.

The centre-back endured a mixed spell at Old Trafford after joining from Real Madrid in 2021, having impressed on occasions but struggled to remain fit all too often. Varane arrived in Manchester on the back of a hugely successful spell in Spain, but failed to reach the heights many expected of the World Cup winner in a United shirt.

Varane went on to join Italian Serie A side Como in the summer, but injuries eventually got the better of him, leading to his retirement from professional football in September.

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And the defender has now responded to Ten Hag's departure from Old Trafford on Monday. The 2018 World Cup winner liked United's Instagram post announcing the Dutchman's dismissal.

The Frenchman was a mainstay in defence when United won the League Cup in 2023 and FA Cup in 2024, but was not offered a new deal by the Dutch head coach and left as a free agent earlier this summer.

Sending a farewell message to supporters earlier this year, the 31-year-old said: "To you guys, supporters of Manchester United, it has been an amazing few years to play for this special club and wear that shirt.

"The first time I went to Old Trafford as a Man United player was insane. The atmosphere was amazing. I fell in love with the club, with the fans. You have to play for Manchester United to understand what that represents. For my kids, it's home here. It is going to be a special place for me for life.

"When the fans go to Wembley it's something they remember for life," he added, ahead of our latest trip to the national stadium on 25 May, to face Manchester City in the Emirates FA Cup final. To share that moment with them [winning the Carabao Cup last season] was absolutely amazing.

"Despite the fact we have had a difficult season, I am very positive for the future. The new owners are coming with a clear plan and a great strategy. I will see you at Old Trafford to say goodbye in the last home game this season. And it's going to be a very emotional day for me, for sure."