In his youth, between the ages of 10 and 12, he already watched Marseille matches. “I liked following OM at the time of Mamadou Niang, Toifilou Maoulida, Taye Taiwo… just as I watched other teams…”
The French international midfielder has nevertheless created a surprise by signing with Olympique de Marseille after the end of his contract with Juventus. Presented at a press conference this Wednesday at La Commanderie, the 29-year-old player returned to his decision, which marks a turning point in his career, long associated with Paris Saint-Germain, his training club. But while several European clubs were interested in his services, Rabiot made the bold choice to join PSG’s historic rival.
After spending nearly nine years in the capital club (2010-2019) where he wore the jersey more than 200 times, the idea of seeing Adrien Rabiot don the Marseille jersey seemed improbable. The player himself did not hide his surprise. “I didn’t expect any animosity from the fans, but I also didn’t think there would be 500 fans to welcome me. It was a nice surprise.”
According to him, his choice was motivated by the sports project that OM offered him via Mehdi Benatia, the sports advisor to President Longoria. Without forgetting the influence of Roberto De Zerbi. The 2022 vice-world champion described the coach as “centerpiece” in the scenario of his arrival, after facing Sassuolo, the team that De Zerbi coached when he played for Juventus Turin.
“I received offers, but I didn’t feel this determination in other clubs to work with me. In Marseille, I felt a clear desire and an ambitious project. He explained the project to me and gave me time to think about it. I appreciated his direct approach and the ambition it reflects.”
By joining OM, Adrien Rabiot joins a team that combines youth and ambition. With his experience, acquired at PSG and then during his five seasons at Juventus, he will bring crucial leadership in a locker room where competition will be fierce.
“The squad is young but talented. There are quality players and real leaders. The competition is healthy and I am ready to take on the challenge.” And the new Olympian intends to extend hisour role as big brother off the field. “I’m here to help young people progress. At Juventus, you learn a lot about demands and hard work. I want to transmit this competitive spirit in the locker room,” he said, eager to experience the atmosphere of the Vélodrome.
Absent ce week-end
“As a footballer, you are constantly looking for strong emotions. Playing in a city like Marseille, at the Vélodrome, with one of the best atmospheres in Europe, is unique. I have been lucky enough to play in big stadiums that are always full and finding this atmosphere here was something I really wanted to experience. What happens on the pitch and in the stands can create an incredible alchemy, capable of carrying the team towards great results,” confides the player, who will probably not be present this Sunday for the trip to Lyon.
“I can’t guarantee that I’ll be ready for the following weekend either. I’ve worked hard, but there are still adjustments to be made. I know that I’m expected to perform and I want to make sure that I arrive in top shape, in the best possible conditions,” assures the old titi.
