David De Gea expressed heartfelt emotions upon hearing the news of his former teammate Raphaël Varane’s international retirement. The two shared a deep bond while playing together at Manchester United, and De Gea had always admired Varane’s professionalism and composure on the field. In an interview,
De Gea highlighted how Varane’s presence had been a source of inspiration, not only due to his world-class defensive skills but also his leadership qualities, particularly in crucial moments.
De Gea acknowledged the impact Varane had on the teams he played for, especially France, where he was instrumental in winning the 2018 World Cup. He expressed his admiration for Varane’s incredible career and reflected on the defender’s dedication, discipline, and calm under pressure, traits that made him one of the best center-backs of his generation.
The goalkeeper also shared personal memories of working alongside Varane, describing him as a humble and down-to-earth individual off the pitch. Despite the sadness of seeing a great player step away from international duties, De Gea emphasized his respect for Varane’s decision and wished him success in the next chapter of his career.
In closing, De Gea noted how lucky he felt to have shared the field with such a remarkable player, stating that Varane’s legacy would inspire future generations of footballers.