Raphael Varane

“I'm quite shy and quite reserved. But when things start heating up, I don't hesitate to show my character, whether that's in good moments, like when we won the World Cup, or more difficult moments.”

“Being able to get some games under my belt and feeling the confidence of the gaffer is something very important to me. That way I feel good on the pitch.”

“You cannot have the career I'm having, staying at Real Madrid for seven years, without character.”

“I am super nice, I am great, even in the dressing room. I am also quite shy. But when there are difficult times or when you have to show your character, you can count on me. The players who have known me for a while know this.”

“Mourinho kept his word. In the two years I played for him he always kept his word, and he also knew when to throw me in at the right time.”

“I am thrilled to become part of the HyperX family and to join this amazing group of talented ambassadors.”

“We do a team sport. Individually, you're worthless!”

“I have memories of watching the Champions League as a kid in France. We all supported different teams and they were intense moments. Great memories.”

“The thing with Mourinho is he asks you to do what you are good at, but not to over-do it.”

“The most important thing to me is time spent on the pitch.”

“Yes, I do like the Premier League.”

“We're not going to win 5-0 every game.”

“One player who gives me a lot of advice at Real is Pepe. He's taught me never to give up. He always gives 100 per cent on the pitch and he tries to instil that winning mentality in me.”

“I consider myself to be from Madrid because I arrived very young, but I do not forget my years in Lens - of which I am also proud.”

“I am a shy, quiet and cool guy in life. And I am no different on the pitch.”

“If I know where I want to play before I receive the ball, it's easier. It's more fluid.”

“When there's a need for someone to speak, I'm there. When there's tough times, I'm there.”

“To play for Madrid for 10 years and also being the number nine you have to be very good and have a huge mental strength.”