Raphael Varane has become the first current Manchester United player to address Cristiano Ronaldo's shock interview with Piers Morgan.
Ronaldo is unlikely to play for the Red Devils again due to the interview that he gave to Morgan, with will be aired in full on Wednesday and Thursday night.
During the discussion, the 37-year-old said that he 'does not have respect' for Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag, in addition to criticising the club's owners the Glazers.
A recent report claimed that the majority of the Man United players believe that Ronaldo should not represent the club again, with a January exit looking likely.
Varane has now been asked about the situation, and the centre-back said that protecting the best interests of the team was the most important outcome.
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"Obviously it affects us. We follow what is happening and what is being said," Varane told Europe 1. "We try to calm the situation in our own way, we try not to get too involved in it.
"When it's a star like Cristiano Ronaldo, even more, so we try to take it with distance, that is to say that we do not try to change the situation alone, we are part of a collective. What I want is the best for my team so whatever the decision, as a player, we will accept it and give the best of ourselves."
Varane has not played for Man United since October 22 due to a hamstring problem, but he is working to be fit for France's World Cup opener against Australia on November 22.
The 29-year-old has a close relationship with Ronaldo following their time together at Real Madrid, but the duo are now unlikely to be teammates past January.
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Man United defender Victor Lindelof was also asked about the Ronaldo situation while on international duty with Sweden, but he was not prepared to discuss the interview.
"I do not know. I will not answer that question. You get to take the next question. It's my decision (to keep quiet)," the 28-year-old told reporters.
Man United do not have another competitive match until December 21, when they will face Championship side Burnley in the fourth round of the EFL Cup.
However, the 20-time English champions will take part in two friendlies over the break for the World Cup, facing Cadiz on December 7 before tackling Real Betis three days later.
Matt Law
