Man Utd star Varane publicly hits out at FA for ‘refusing’ to listen to players

Man Utd news: Raphael Varane has sent a public message to the FA (Image: GETTY) Manchester United star Raphael Varane has hit out at the FA for appearing to not listen to players’ concerns ahead of the new season. The Frenchman insists longer games caused by additional stoppage time will have a detrimental effect on him and his fellow professionals. The FA are attempting to cut down on time-wasting and increase the time the ball is in play. Matches will far more often reach at least 100 minutes. The World Cup in Qatar last year saw large amounts of stoppage time added at both half-time and full-time. The English authorities have now copied that approach and it was first used for the opening round of EFL matches at the weekend. Pep Guardiola criticised the changes after his Manchester City side conceded a 101st-minute equaliser in the Community Shield against Arsenal on Sunday. And now former World Cup winner Varane has spoken up on behalf of the players. He claims concerns were aired to the FA at a meeting last week but they have fallen on deaf ears. Varane says ‘longer games’ at ‘more intensity’ will eventually prevent players from being able to play at their highest level. Varane  tweeted : “We had a meeting last week with the FA. They recommended from the referees new decisions and rules. “From the managers and players, we have shared our concerns for many years now that there are too many games, the schedule is overcrowded, and it’s at a dangerous level for players physical and mental well-being. “Despite our previous feedbacks, they have now recommended for next season: longer games, more intensity, and less emotions to be shown by players. We just want to be in good condition on the pitch to give 100 per cent to our club and fans. Why are our opinions not being heard? “As a player I feel very privileged to do the job I love every day but I feel these changes are damaging our game. We want to be at our maximum level, the best we can be and put on amazing performances for fans to celebrate every week. “I believe it is important that we, players and managers, highlight these important issues as we want to protect the game we love and give the fans our best.”