Raphael Varane's Manchester United absence impacts far more than just their defensive solidity

Manchester United interim manager Ralf Rangnick confirmed in Friday’s press conference that Raphael Varane is ruled out for Saturday’s Premier League match against Norwich. The World Cup winner’s debut season has been disrupted by injuries and his latest setback could prove to be a damning blow to United’s top-four hopes.

Rangnick’s side enter Saturday’s match knowing that there is no margin for error if they are to close the gap to fourth-placed Tottenham between now and the end of the season. The German will be looking for a reaction from his side after a disappointing two weeks that have seen the United draw at home to Leicester and lose at Everton.

Varane missed last week’s 1-0 defeat at Goodison Park and, along with Scott McTominay, Fred, Luke Shaw and Edinson Cavani, is unavailable for selection against the Canaries. Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof are United’s most likely defensive partnership for the visit of Dean Smith’s side, but the return to fitness of Eric Bailly means Rangnick has options to cope without Varane.

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28-year-old Varane arrived at the club in August, bringing composure and a winning mentality to United’s backline. Despite the expectation, the serial winner has endured a handful of injuries that have limited his time on the pitch.

In his first five Premier League matches, Varane only tasted defeat on one occasion. After suffering a groin injury, the French international missed two matches, in which United lost both and conceded nine goals.

Across the season, Varane has made 16 Premier League starts, keeping four clean sheets. Considering United have only kept seven league clean sheets overall, Varane’s importance is