Young defender Raphael Varane has praised Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho for guiding his career to perfection at the Bernabeu.

 

The 18-year-old signed a six-year contract with Los Blancos in the summer, joining from Lens after meeting Mourinho and becoming convinced that he would flourish under the Portuguese.

 

And working with the former Inter coach on a regular basis has not changed that view.

 

"He knows what is best for me and when I should play", insisted Varane, who has three La Liga appearances under his belt this season.

 

"I have the best conditions to grow and improve, surrounded by experienced players who guide me on the training pitch."

 

Varane has been tipped as a defensive star of the future and was recommended to Real Madrid by former France international Zinedine Zidane, who put in much spadework to bring the youngster to the Spanish capital.

 

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