Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has most likely suffered an adductor tear, according to a doctor and performance expert.
The Frenchman was forced off in the first half for France in their UEFA Nations League final against Spain on Sunday.
Varane went down holding his leg, but it is unclear whether he was feeling it after tweaking a muscle when running, or when he looked to cut out a cross from Spain.
The severity of the Manchester United defender’s injury is still unclear, with the France international leaving the pitch in the 43rd minute and could not wait until the break.
The French medical staff attended to Varane on the pitch, but it became apparent that he would not be able to continue the game.
And after the injury, Dr Rajpal Brar, a doctor in physical therapy, fitness and movement coach, has given his assessment about Varane’s injury.
In a video on his YouTube channel, Dr Brar said: “Based on where he grabbed on the inside of the right thigh, and additionally, he was seen with ice while seated on the bench on the inside of that right thigh as well as, it is very likely this is an adductor groin injury.
“His return timeline will depend on the specific location, and severity of the injury.
“If it’s indeed an adductor tear, a grade one typically comes with a one to two-week return timeline, grade two you’re looking at two-and-a-half to three weeks, and then a grade three is going to be dependent on if surgery is required or not.
“Although I highly, highly doubt it’s a grade three based on the fact he was able to walk off pretty well and was allowed to be on the bench, as well.
“We’ll certainly find out more, as it’s evaluated by the national team and also by Man United staff as well, but these can be tricky injuries to deal with and quite sensitive to re-injury because of the significant demands placed on the adductors during football.”
