Varane Balances Champions League Glory with World Cup Dreams
As the footballing world turns its attention to Lisbon this Saturday for an all-Madrid Champions League final, France international Raphaël Varane stands at the heart of the action — both for club and country.
The Real Madrid centre-back is expected to feature at the Estádio da Luz as Los Blancos face city rivals Atlético Madrid in a much-anticipated showdown for European supremacy. For the 21-year-old defender, it’s a continuation of a season marked by remarkable achievements and growing responsibility at the highest level.
Varane’s rise has not gone unnoticed on the international stage. Recently named in Didier Deschamps’ final 23-man squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Brazil, the Martinique-born defender is set to represent France in what will be his first senior appearance at the global tournament.
Speaking to Le Figaro ahead of the Champions League final, Varane expressed his pride and humility at being selected for such a prestigious event:
“It’s always a huge source of pride and something special to be called up to the national team. Even more so for a World Cup in Brazil. It was a great moment for me.”
Despite the growing spotlight, Varane is determined to remain grounded, recognising both the privilege and the pressure of his position:
“To experience what I’m experiencing at my age, whether with Real or the French team, it’s exceptional. But I think I’m managing to realise it and make the most of it. I’m keeping my feet firmly on the ground while knowing that somewhere, I’m living a childhood dream.”
His composed performances and maturity beyond his years have made him a trusted figure in Real Madrid’s back line and a player Deschamps will be counting on in Brazil. But before his focus shifts fully to the World Cup, Varane has another dream in sight: helping Madrid secure their long-awaited 10th European title — La Décima.
With both domestic and international duties calling, Varane stands at a defining moment in a young but already decorated career. Victory on Saturday could be the perfect springboard into a summer where even greater glory awaits.
