RAPHAEL VARANE has lauded Paul Pogba’s ‘positive’ influence on Manchester United’s squad after being lured to Old Trafford by his French pal.
The Red Devils newbie revealed his compatriot played a huge part in his decision to swap Real Madrid for the Premier League.
Varane was speaking to Premier League World ahead of Les Bleus’ 2-1 Uefa Nations League final triumph over Spain on Sunday.
The centre-back, 28, who faces Leicester City next, said: “He (Pogba) spoke to me about the club, about the atmosphere, about the expectations and, of course, he is a great player.
“He has a great energy, a very positive energy, and he is a leader for the group.”
Varane, who moved to England this summer after a ten-year LaLiga spell, began his senior playing career at 17 with French side Lens.
He has enjoyed major success in Spain and on the international stage with club-mate Pogba.
The duo were part of the France side that won the 2018 World Cup in Russia, beating Croatia 4-2.
And both players have started the season in impressive form with £89million superstar Pogba notching up eight assists and one goal in 13 appearances across all competitions.
The midfielder, who is yet to sign a new Red Devils contract with his current one expiring next summer, has reportedly been offered an eye-watering new deal worth £104m.
Meanwhile, Varane, who has registered one assist in five games since his £42m United move, is fully focused on his future in Ole Gunnar Solksjaer’s squad.
The defender, who won 18 major trophies with Madrid included four Champions Leagues, added: “It is a big challenge to be at the top with a club like Man United.
“I feel people want to win and want to do great things with this club.
“I want to be better, I want to improve and I want to push myself to improve and be better.”
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