Didier Deschamps has confirmed Raphael Varane was withdrawn during France’s 2-1 victory against the Ivory Coast on Friday night due to a foot issue.
The Manchester United defender was replaced shortly before the hour mark by debutant William Saliba, with Aurelien Tchouameni eventually netting a late winner following Nicolas Pepe and Olivier Giroud’s first-half goals.
After the game, Les Bleus boss Deschamps revealed the reasoning behind the switch, stating: “He had a little problem with his foot.”
The France boss did not disclose the nature of his injury or if he will miss any games, although Varane was spotted hobbling off the ground.
The former Real Madrid defender’s first season in England has been marred by injuries, featuring in only 17 of United’s 29 Premier League games thus far this season.
The Red Devils are presently fighting for a top-four finish, and Varane’s absence would be a significant blow to their Champions League aspirations. Following the international break, they face Leicester at Old Trafford before playing Everton and Norwich.
United are presently four points behind Arsenal in fourth place, despite having played one extra game.
Apart from Varane, United are injury-free. Victor Lindelof is anticipated to slot in alongside club captain Harry Maguire if he misses a game or two.
