"Real has three top centre-backs"

The football world is currently rubbing its eyes following the emergence of Raphael Varane, who has gone from young prospect to man of the moment following his recent performances in the 'Clásicos' and in the Champions League against Manchester United.

We caught up with Fabio Cannavaro, a bonafide footballing legend who knows a thing or two about defending, to sink our teeth into Varane's sudden rise to the fore.

Question. Would you get into this Real Madrid team?

Answer. I'm not so sure. Truth be told, there are some bloody good defenders there.

Q. What's your take on Varane?

A. What makes Varane so good is the cool head he displays, way beyond his years. He plays like a veteran and makes things look so simple. But he will also have to learn that there are some situations in which you need to be more pragmatic.

Q. What do you mean?

A. I'm talking about the goal Real Madrid conceded at Old Trafford. He shouldn't have been messing around in that position. I get that he likes bringing the ball out, but he needed to be smarter – this is the Champions League we're talking about. There's no margin for error. But anyway, that's something we all went through and I'm sure he'll learn from it and improve.