Real Madrid defender Rafael Varane admits he was surprised to be chosen for the 3-2 Champions League win over Manchester City.
The French youngster [pictured, left] replaced Sergio Ramos in Jose Mourinho’s starting line-up to form a central defensive pairing with Portuguese international Pepe.
However, the shock decision to draft him in for his first game of the season left him a little stunned.
“I was surprised to play because I have not had a good pre-season and I’ve not been in the side until today, although I know I have the confidence of Mourinho, but that’s life and that’s football,” he told a Press conference.
Varane recognised that the victory over Roberto Mancini’s men had been tough.
“We are happy to have won such a difficult game 3-2 and it was hard towards the end.
“Even so, it’s three points to begin with and that’s very good.”
