Stephan pays tribute to Varane after his international retirement

« A decade in the France team, that in fact, trainingadvances Guy Stéphan, assistant to Didier Deschamps in the France team, about the international retirement of the vice-captain of the Blues this Thursday. Raphaël was a very pleasant player to coach. A great professional in his approach, who takes good care of his body before and after the sessions. His athletic qualities, in general, are impressive. His running speed, his relaxation, in particular. Technically, Raphaël is a very comfortable defender, his raises and his heading game are among his strengths. I remember his mental qualities as well. Raphaël was a respected leader who grew up with the team. It took, logically, more and more space. The Varane of 2012 was not yet that of 2018, nor of 2022. But I often heard him in pre-match warm-ups, he spoke and his voice carried. Everyone was listening to him. He had the verb and the tone. He is a player you could count on, a respected leader. Like all the members of the staff, I became attached to this sincere, loyal boy. The France team loses a leading player but his children will be able to enjoy a golden dad. Thank you for everything you have given us during these ten years. It was a great pleasure and a great pride to meet you. »