Raphael Varane position clarified after claims Man Utd defender could face ‘probe’ for ski holiday

Raphael Varane will not face any disciplinary action from Manchester United after posting pictures from a family skiing holiday in the Alps.

The French defender uploaded a photo of himself to Instagram on Thursday, with ski slopes in the background. Although no images of Varane skiing emerged, the Sun reported on Thursday that Varane would face a ‘probe’ from manager Erik ten Hag when he returned. Footballers are not typically allowed to ski due to the high risk of injury and last year Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer broke his leg on the slopes.

But United insisted on Thursday night that Varane will not be punished for his trip - which was sanctioned by the club - and did not partake in any skiing.

United players are currently enjoying some downtime during the Premier League’s winter break, which is split over two weeks. Ten of the division’s 20 clubs were in action last week, with the other half playing this weekend.

United played out a 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur last Sunday and have a 14-day break until they are next in action, when the Red Devils travel to Newport County in the FA Cup on Sunday 28 January.

As for Varane, the 30-year-old’s future remains uncertain at United as the club chose not to extend his contract by an additional year, despite triggering the same option in the deals of Victor Lindelof, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Hannibal.

Reports have suggested Varane could be offered fresh terms on lower wages, amid a transfer window in which financial restrictions are limiting the club’s ability to make any significant additions in the transfer market.

The club have moved on seven players this window, with Maxi Oyedele, Alvaro Fernandez, Donny van de Beek, Hannibal, Jadon Sancho and Joe Hugill heading out on loan, while Mateo Mejia has joined Sevilla in a permanent deal.