Spanish insights into Adrien Rabiot’s surprising move to OM

Currently a key player for AC Milan, Adrien Rabiot made his return to the Italian championship a year ago. Following his departure from OM after an incident involving Jonathan Rowe, the French international settled in Lombardy, re-establishing himself in Serie A, a league he knows intimately. Indeed, between 2019 and 2024, Rabiot proudly wore the Juventus jersey. Upon the expiration of that contract, the midfielder, originally from PSG’s youth system, then opted for OM, choosing Marseille over several top European clubs that were reportedly offering more appealing projects and better terms.

Ancelotti’s interest at Real Madrid

Beyond his formative years at PSG, Adrien Rabiot’s decision to join OM raised eyebrows, especially considering the Phocaeans were not competing in any European cups at the time. Despite this, the French international was ultimately swayed by Marseille, even though he could have signed with none other than Real Madrid. As Rabiot delivered a strong performance during the World Cup with the French national team, Spanish journalist José Félix Diaz of AS newspaper commented on X: « Rabiot was without a team on August 30, 2024. Ancelotti wanted to sign him ». Despite the clear desire from Carlo Ancelotti, then coach of Real Madrid, Adrien Rabiot did not make the move to the Spanish capital, instead heading to OM.

A bold recruitment strategy

At OM, it was Medhi Benatia who orchestrated Adrien Rabiot’s unexpected signature. The former sporting director for Marseille, now departed, recently reflected on this significant acquisition. He explained: « When I brought Adrien in, the transfer window was closed, but we could use a ‘joker’ signing. He was a free agent at that point, having not extended his contract with Juve. He had numerous options, but for various reasons, he hadn’t reached an agreement. I had followed his entire transfer saga, where he might go, etc. So, I decided to go for it with audacity. (…) If you know Adri, he’s a true football enthusiast, a guy who gives his all. When I called him, I thought, at worst he says no, I have nothing to lose. But if it works… And then, he called me back 24 hours later. I told him: “Adri, my man, I gave you 48 hours, not 24. Are you sure you’ve thought this through?” He replied: “No, no, I’ve thought about it. I’ll give you my mother’s number, call her, and you can start.” I said: “Don’t worry, I already have everything. I just want you to tell me if…” He said: “No, it’s good, it’s how you spoke to me about football. It’s good, I want to come.” »