The Day Mourinho Went After Varane and Told Him to His Face, His Career Changed

One of the signings that, for many, changed Real Madrid's history in the modern era was the arrival of José Mourinho from Inter Milan at that time. The competitive spirit of the white club changed radically, and today we see a new face of this winning team. But one of the signings that brought the most benefits from the Portuguese was Raphael Varane, who became a symbol of Madridism.

But not everything was rosy with one of the most demanding and challenging coaches in soccer history, and the French center-back made this clear. In a conversation where he shares space with Tchouaméni, he was asked about his time with Mourinho, and what he said left everyone speechless.  "He calls me one day and says 'Why are you useless?', I was surprised, but he's the kind of coach who motivated me to bring out the best in me."

The forcefulness with which he refers to the Portuguese is simply unbelievable, and some might even say it's too cruel, but the world of soccer is harsh.  Varane himself recounts the surprise this caused him, but it helped him improve back then.

A Very Tough Mourinho

As the years have passed,  Mourinho's toughness has considerably diminished from what it was a few years ago. Now, for many players and former players who know him, it's not the same. But that doesn't mean he no longer has a fearsome temperament.

Talking about what this union was in those years is a clear example of what soccer was not long ago. Varane experienced firsthand what it was like to have a tough and demanding coach in the most demanding team in the world.

He Knew How to Take Advantage

What is more than clear is that Varane perfectly took advantage of Mourinho's teachings, tough or not, and became an icon of Madridism. Even today, he is remembered as a special player enhanced by the most special of all.