Ex-Man Utd ace Varane’s verdict on Hong Kong event and idea of EPL, La Liga games abroad
World Cup and Champions League winner reflects on Soccer Sevens’ role in developing young English Premier League talent
Former France and Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane has said he was blown away by the passion for football in Hong Kong after witnessing it first-hand at the weekend.
A World Cup and four-time Uefa Champions League winner, Varane was a popular guest at the HKFC Standard Chartered Soccer Sevens on Sunday.
“The welcome here was amazing,” said the 32-year-old, who retired last September. “You could see the fans’ incredible passion for football.”
Reflecting on that tournament, which was won in dramatic fashion by Dutch team AZ Alkmaar after a nip-and-tuck final against Brighton & Hove Albion, Varane hailed the opportunity for young playing talents to “share cultures and knowledge”.
“It’s a great experience for kids to come from around the world, and play against teams from everywhere, it’s good for their development,” Varane said.
“The [sevens] game is faster, so it’s good for developing different skills … the tournament provides only positive things.”