In the midst of swirling speculations and rumors surrounding possible player departures, Manchester United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, has unequivocally denied any talks of Raphael Varane leaving Old Trafford as mere ‘rumors.’ The French defender, alongside former Real Madrid star Casemiro, has been the subject of ongoing transfer rumors, contributing to discussions about a purported lack of leadership and division within the Red Devils’ locker room.

Despite reported strains in his relationship with senior players, including Varane, Ten Hag dismissed claims of any player’s imminent departure. When questioned about the situation, he responded, “I don’t know what you’re talking about. It’s rumors. [Varane is a] very important player, but there’s internal competition, and there should be at a top club, as we are.”

Highlighting the necessity of making choices in a competitive squad, Ten Hag pointed to Raphael Varane’s and Harry Maguire’s brilliance, emphasizing the managerial decisions that come with such talent.

Varane, who joined Manchester United from Real Madrid in 2021 for a £34 million transfer fee, has since made 75 appearances for the Red Devils. Notably, he played a key role in the team’s Carabao Cup triumph last season. However, this season has seen the 30-year-old start only four out of nine Premier League games.

During the 3-0 defeat to Manchester City in the Manchester derby, Varane found himself on the bench, with Jonny Evans and Harry Maguire preferred in the starting lineup. The match highlighted the challenges facing Manchester United, which has been marred by a series of setbacks, including injuries to key players.

Several senior Manchester United players have reportedly expressed concerns about Erik ten Hag’s intense pre-season training schedule, attributing it to the team’s difficult start to the campaign. The demanding schedule, including eight friendlies and a 12-day trip to the United States, left players feeling overworked. The subsequent injury woes have affected key players like Lisandro Martinez, Casemiro, Luke Shaw, Marcus Rashford, Andre Onana, Christian Eriksen, and Rasmus Hojlund.