Roland Cutinho
Former Manchester United centre-back Nemanja Vidic hails Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez’s partnership
Nemanja Vidic has been impressed by Manchester United’s current central defensive duo, Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane, mentioning them as a ‘good partnership’ for the Red Devils.
Over the past year, these two reliable centre-backs have emerged as the preferred defensive pairing under Erik ten Hag.
Their importance was highlighted when both were absent towards the end of the previous season.
Martinez faced an extended period of injury-related absence, whereas Varane, while having a relatively better fitness record in the past year, still encountered challenges during his time at Old Trafford.
Vidic emphasises the need for both players to maintain their fitness and uphold their developing partnership.
While talking to the club’s official website, the iconic United defender said:
“Martinez, he did fantastic in the first season. He is energetic, aggressive, he set the tone from the back. He was injured for quite a few weeks, but I saw a few games since. He seems like he’s worked hard in that recovery process and he seems that he’s ready to compete this season.”
“Obviously, Varane is experienced. He has a few injuries during the season and, for him, it is important to stay fit. I think those two, they’re a good partnership.”
The Red Devils have struggled to sign quality centre-backs since Vidic and Rio Ferdinand left the club. However, after years of waiting, they have finally found two warriors whom they can trust.
Despite their clear differences, with Martinez being 25 years old, 5’9″, aggressive yet skilful, and Varane being 30 years old, 6’3″, composed and strategic in defence, they describe the concept that opposite qualities can complement each other.
In many aspects, they reflect the qualities that made the partnership between Vidic and Ferdinand so solid.
Martinez‘s direct, aggressive approach has earned him the nickname “The Butcher”, reminiscent of Vidic’s aggressive tactics against opposing attackers.
Varane’s tall stature and athletic movement provide a glimpse of Ferdinand’s imposing presence and his calming influence at the back.
Vidic’s views match with the sentiments of many United supporters, as he highlighted the importance of both centre-backs’ fitness. It has been seen that the team noticeably struggles in their absence.
The French centre-back showed his importance once again as he scored the lone goal for United against Wolverhampton Wanderers in their opening Premier League clash of the 2023-24 season at Old Trafford on Monday.
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In our opinion, this pairing of Martinez and Varane is expected to play a crucial role in United’s potential achievements this season.
