Quotes from Raphael Varane

In my position you talk about a mature player being around 28 and it is normal that you improve.

Mourinho kept his word. In the two years I played for him he always kept his word, and he also knew when to throw me in at the right time.

It was the craziest period of my life: I was getting ready for the baccalaureate, the phone was ringing off the hook, I visited the Real facilities, I met Alex Ferguson.

In every training session, I learn.

It would be against my nature if I shouted or banged the walls.

Winning the Champions League is the dream.

Having the ball means creating chances and scoring goals.

I have memories of watching the Champions League as a kid in France. We all supported different teams and they were intense moments. Great memories.

Just imagine, I was doing exams and signing autographs for other students. It was surreal. I'm really proud that I passed.

I was inspired by players like Pepe or Sergio Ramos because they are defenders and by someone like Cristiano Ronaldo, who is an example for any footballer.

Having played an international competition is definitely a plus.

A good run is always good. It helps us to wear the colours of the France team.

What is important is to communicate a lot. That's how we manage to create a good understanding.

I watch a lot of players in my position, but if I had to name a role model, I'd say Lillian Thuram because of the way he carried himself on the pitch and everything he did in his career.

Kylian is very important for France. We count on him very much.

I have my style of play and people can criticise me for that which is not a problem.

Everybody knows that there are quality players at centre back for Madrid and for me that's the day-to-day challenge. That's why it's important to be ready to take advantage of every chance that comes up.

Yes, I do like the Premier League.

I remember that in 2017, when we won everything, we started the pre-season badly, with defeats.

I see football as a team sport, I'm not looking for the spotlight.

You have to play differently. I try to be more complete to annoy any striker.

I am super nice, I am great, even in the dressing room. I am also quite shy. But when there are difficult times or when you have to show your character, you can count on me. The players who have known me for a while know this.

With Ancelotti I played less, but he did extraordinary things at Real and this is what counts.

Playing with France is the challenge of playing with one of the national teams with the greatest football histories.