Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane has praised both boss Jose Mourinho and the club after being called up by France.
The 19-year-old has been included in Didier Deschamps squad for the first time for the friendly with Uruguay in Le Havre on August 15.
Varane, who arrived at the Santiago Bernabeu last summer from Lens in a deal worth €10m, admits it is a dream come true.
“I am very happy and it is an honour and a privilege for me. I owe this call-up to Madrid for believing in me and to Mourinho, from whom I learn things every day,” Varane told Real Madrid’s official website.
Having been given the news while on the club’s pre-season tour of North America, Varane conceded he is excited about the possibility of lining up for his country alongside players such as teammate Karim Benzema.
“To play for France is the challenge of playing for a country with one of the greatest histories in world football.
“I am going to do everything possible to repay the faith shown in me by the French Football Federation and the Coach.”
