Varane: "Spain isn't in decline"

Reflecting on his France debut, Raphael Varane claimed that he felt "the same pressure" as when lining up for Real Madrid, but "different emotions". "I was really proud to make my debut for the national team. Before the game, I was raring to get on the pitch and, once I did so, I felt really moved. Hearing the national anthem sent shivers down my spine. It was a great night", noted the Real defender.
"I've played games with lots of pressure for Real, like the 'Clásicos', but this is different – it's special. Wearing the 'Les Bleus' shirt conjures up different emotions. Playing for your country is something else", he added.
Varane was satisfied with his performance against Georgia, while admitting that he still has a lot to learn and calling on the France fans to be patient as he gets used to playing alongside Mamadou Sakho.
The 'Los Blancos' centre-back is hoping to retain his starting berth in Tuesday's meeting with Spain, stating that "once you've had a taste of international football, you don't want to give it up". He anticipates that the clash, which he expects the players to "be really up for", will be high on intensity,
Finally, the former Lens youngster said that Spain "isn't in decline", despite having drawn with Finland, a result that he claimed "won't change anything" in terms of the way 'Les Bleus' approach the qualifier.