Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has outlined his pride at the France squad following a gut-wrenching World Cup final defeat to Argentina on Sunday afternoon.
In a truly memorable showpiece, Argentina captain Lionel Messi (2) and France sensation Kylian Mbappe (3) traded blows at the Lusail Stadium as the two sides had to be separated by a shootout. At that stage, goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez took centre stage for the South Americans with one telling save.
France midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni also missed the target. It brought agony for Varane and Les Bleus while his United defensive partner, Lisandro Martinez, celebrated an iconic victory for Argentina as they claimed the biggest trophy on the planet for a third time.
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Varane won the competition with France four years ago in Russia and they were bidding to retain the golden prize this time around. However, they were to fall at the final hurdle in heart-breaking circumstances.
Addressing his 7.3million followers on social media platform Twitter last night, Varane said: "Sad, but so proud." That post also featured a love heart emoji and the French national flag.
It has drawn in 200,000-plus likes and countless replies from supporters across the globe.
Varane was a fitness doubt for the World Cup after limping off for United during their Premier League draw against Chelsea in October, but the 29-year-old recovered from that leg problem to make the squad. He sat out their Group D opener with Australia before starting all six other matches - including the final.
Varane has won 93 caps for his country while scoring five goals. He played 113 minutes against Argentina.
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