Former Man Utd star goes incognito in scarf and hat at Ligue 1 clash but is instantly spotted by fans

A FORMER Manchester United star tried to watch a Ligue 1 match incognito.

But he was immediately noticed by fans.

The ex-Red Devils man took his place among the supporters for Lens' French Cup match with Paris Saint-Germain on Sunday evening.

Will Still's side took the lead after 66 minutes, but their lead lasted just four minutes before substitute Goncalo Ramos equalized.

Luis Enrique's men won 4-3 in the penalty shootout to book their place in the last 32.

And that left the disguised defender.

The World Cup winner wore a red and yellow Lens scarf to cover his face.

He completed the look with a matching hat and black jacket.

But it didn't take long for fans to figure out who it was.

Especially since the superstar came through the club as a youngster.

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He shone for the first team and earned a move to one of the world's biggest clubs in 2011, joining United a decade later.

But have you already discovered who the mysterious footballer is?

It is none other than Raphael Varane.

Varane, 31, spent 10 years at Real Madrid after his transfer from Lens, where he won four Champions Leagues.

But things didn't work out so well for the 93-cap France international at Old Trafford as he struggled for form and fitness amid the club's ongoing woes.

Varane left for Cosmo on a two-year contract in the summer, but suffered a knee injury and opted to retire.

Following his secret visit to Lens, days after helping to draw the 2025 Women's European Championship, the local hero posted the photos to Instagram, including selfies with the adoring Lens faithful.

He captioned the Instagram upload: “Back to the source… Don't try to explain it to them, they can't understand ❤️💛

'Recognize those eyes'

“I love football, the emotions. This is what it's all about!!”

Many fans enjoyed Varane's undercover party full of festive football.

One said: “I love you Raph.”

Another wrote: “Legend.”

A third added: “I recognize those eyes haha.”

A fourth replied: “Bro is enjoying his retirement.”

And one end user joked: “Varane dressed like a hooligan.”