Raphael Varane reveals how Real Madrid lessons can help Man Utd

Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has opened up on the life and sporting lessons taught to him at Real Madrid, including how to stop a team led by Pep Guardiola.

The Red Devils take on rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday at Wembley.

Man City have their sights set on replicating Man Utd’s treble of 1999 – they will face Inter in next week’s Champions League final – and the red half of Manchester will be keen to dash those hopes as much as they want to win a second trophy this season.

Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, the experienced Varane recalled his experiences of battling Guardiola during their respective time in Spain and how different his Man City side are.

“I really enjoy playing here for Man United, playing in England and feeling good with my teammates, having a good connection with the fans,” he said.

“I think the similarities [with Barcelona in 2011] are Pep and the style of play from City, but it’s different. I don’t think it’s the same thing but I learned a lot from that period in Madrid.

Varane then spoke about these lessons picked up at Real Madrid, adding: “It was first step at the top level. I learned how to fight, developed that winning mentality. We grew as a team and as a club during that period. I learned a lot and it was very helpful for me.

“We want to develop and be on the top at Manchester United as well. When you start winning you can change the mentality and be more prepared to win more and the biggest trophies.

“We have to be positive, we’re in a good way, but the most important thing is to believe. Even when it’s difficult, we know how important Manchester United are around the world. There’s a lot of pressure, so when the results are not good you have to stay calm and composed.

“When it’s good we have to be relaxed too and not think we are bigger than we are, than the reality. I learned a lot from a club like Madrid and I try to transmit that here.”