I can't do any more to win Balon d'Or: Varane

Real Madrid's French international defender Rafael Varane believes that if he is ever going to win the prestigious Balon D'Or trophy this has to be the year.

2018 saw Varane win the Champions League with Real Madrid and the World Cup with the French national team and he is one of the main candidates for the award, the winner of which will be announced on December 3.

Varane will compete with former team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as Atletico Madrid's Antoine Griezmann and Paris Saint Germain striker Kylian M'Bappe among others and in an interview with France Football magazine published on Tuesday, he said he doesn't think he could have done more to win the trophy.

"It has been a golden year," said Varane, who also admitted it would not be easy to decide the winner.

"If I put myself in the shoes of those who vote then it doesn't seem easy. There are so many extraordinary players who have had a magnificent season," he said.

"I have done everything I can," commented the defender, who is delighted to be among the candidates.

"I am already flattered that people speak about me and recognize my work," said Varane, who won't be too upset if he doesn't win.