Raphael Varane talks Real Madrid transfer, Zidane, Mourinho, Alonso, Ramos, club legacy | OneFootball

Raphael Varane may have stepped away from professional football, but the former Real Madrid defender continues to reflect with pride and humility on the moments that shaped his extraordinary career. 

Joining Los Blancos as a teenager in 2011, Varane went on to spend a decade at the club, forming part of one of the most successful squads in modern European football. 

In a recent interview, the 32-year-old opened up about the stories, decisions, and personalities that defined his journey.

Varane began by recalling the first time he learned that Real Madrid were interested in signing him. He described a quiet day at home before everything changed in an instant. 

“I was at my mother’s house studying. I think it was the afternoon of a Friday. The phone rang. 

“It was ringing a lot in those days to the point that I wasn’t paying attention to who was speaking. I thought: ‘Just another person.’ And suddenly I recognised Zidane.”

The surprise left him momentarily overwhelmed, leading to an unforgettable reaction. As he explained, 

“I was scared, honestly, and I told him we could talk another time, because I was very busy (laughs). So he said, as usual, with elegance: ‘Yes, yes, of course.'”

Still stunned, Varane immediately ran to share what had happened. He recalled telling his brother the news before adding, 

“I ran to my older brother’s room and said to him, ‘You won’t believe what happened!'”

His brother’s reaction was just as dramatic, with Varane repeating, “‘You hung up on Zidane? What have you done?!’ (laughs).”

More on Real Madrid transfer

Raphael Varane revealed the conversation with Mourinho. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)

Varane also discussed how critical it was for him to speak with Jose Mourinho before signing. 

Reflecting on that meeting, he said, “Not over the phone, but before signing, I travelled to Madrid and spoke with him in person. 

“I needed to know if he really wanted me.”

The conversation left a strong impression, and Varane explained, “Mourinho has great charisma. I left thinking: ‘I’ll do anything for him.'”

While Real Madrid’s interest was decisive, the defender revealed that he had several other offers on the table. 

Providing context before the quote, he highlighted how highly regarded he already was, saying,

“Many, actually. Even Alex Ferguson [former Manchester United manager] came to visit me at home.”

But ultimately, the choice was simple. As he put it, “When Real Madrid calls you, the world stops. There is nothing else.”

Partnership with Ramos

Speaking about his legendary partnership with Sergio Ramos, Varane explained how naturally their styles blended. 

He described the balance and chemistry they shared, stating, “We complemented each other perfectly. He loved to push forward, and I loved covering his back.”

He then expanded on what he admired most about the captain, adding, “His drive. He had the ability to inspire everyone. He wasn’t much of a talker. 

“He was a leader through his passion and competitive spirit. He was like a general going into battle, someone you had to follow.”

Real Madrid and Zidane’s legacy

Varane also reflected on the team that dominated Europe by winning three consecutive Champions League titles. 

Raphael Varane formed a great partnership with Sergio Ramos. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)

He pointed out that their understanding required little conversation, explaining,

“There was little talking, because everyone knew what to do. They were all top-class players at the peak of their performance, with well-rounded qualities. 

“There was no need for a detailed plan, as every player possessed the football intelligence that allowed him to know when to press, when to communicate, and when to hold onto the ball. Things just flowed smoothly.”

Discussing Zinedine Zidane’s impact as a coach, Varane offered deep respect for his leadership style. He said Zidane made players feel protected and valued. Varane noted, 

“He was a captain very close to the players, instilling great confidence in them, and always protecting the team. He never blamed anyone. 

“He understood the players very well. He wasn’t the type to shout a lot, but you listened to him when he spoke. 

“He was a calm leader, always pushing you to give more. He loved taking risks; he would say to you, ‘If it fails, it’s my fault.'”

Finally, Varane paid tribute to Xabi Alonso, the current Real Madrid manager, recalling his early days at the Bernabeu. 

He spoke about how Alonso immediately took control of the match. Varane said, “In my first game at the Bernabeu, I didn’t have many options with the ball. 

“He came towards me, I passed him the ball, and suddenly everyone on the pitch started moving. He orchestrated the match with his skill and long passes. He also managed the pressure. 

“He would shout, start pushing forward, and urge the forwards to advance. On the pitch, he was already acting like a coach,” he concluded.