In the summer of 2024, following the conclusion of his contract with Juventus, Adrien Rabiot spent some time searching for his next club. To the widespread surprise of many, the French international, who developed through the Paris Saint-Germain academy, ultimately committed to Olympique de Marseille. However, recent disclosures have shed light on the fact that Rabiot had a range of other prestigious destinations at his disposal.
Currently a player for Milan AC, Adrien Rabiot made his return to the Italian championship approximately a year ago. After an unforeseen departure from Olympique de Marseille following an altercation with Jonathan Rowe, the French international subsequently settled in Lombardy, once again competing in Serie A, a league with which he is intimately familiar. Indeed, Rabiot previously represented Juventus from 2019 until 2024. Upon the expiration of that contract, the former PSG player then transferred to OM, choosing this particular club despite receiving enticing proposals and more ambitious projects from several leading European teams.
Ancelotti’s keen interest in Rabiot for Real Madrid
Beyond his formative years at PSG, Adrien Rabiot’s choice to join OM was particularly astonishing, especially considering that the Phocaean club was not participating in any European cup competitions at the time. Nevertheless, the French international was ultimately convinced by Marseille, even though a potential move to Real Madrid was on the table. Spanish journalist José Félix Diaz, from AS, took to X to highlight how Rabiot’s strong performances with the French national team during the World Cup prompted him to recall: « Rabiot was without a team on August 30, 2024. Ancelotti wanted to sign him ». Despite this clear desire from Carlo Ancelotti, then manager of Real Madrid, Adrien Rabiot did not ultimately make his way to the Spanish capital, instead opting for Olympique de Marseille.
A ‘bold’ recruitment strategy
At OM, it was Medhi Benatia who played a pivotal role in securing Adrien Rabiot’s signature. The former sporting director for Marseille later reflected on this significant acquisition, explaining: « When I brought Adrien in, the transfer window had already closed, but we were permitted to use a ‘joker’ signing. He was a free agent at that moment, having not extended his contract with Juve. He had an abundance of choices, but for various reasons, he hadn’t reached an agreement. I had closely followed the entire transfer period, observing his potential destinations, etc. So, I decided to take a bold approach. (…) When you know Adri, he’s a true football enthusiast, a guy who gives his absolute all. So, when I called him, I thought, at worst he’ll decline, and I have nothing to lose. But if it works out… And then he called me back just 24 hours later. I told him: “Adri, my friend, I gave you 48 hours, not 24. Are you certain you’ve given this enough thought?” He responded: “No, no, I’ve considered it thoroughly. I’ll give you my mother’s number; call her, and you can proceed.” I replied: “Don’t worry, I already have all the necessary information. I just need you to confirm if…” He interjected: “No, it’s good, it’s about how you spoke to me about football. It’s settled, I want to come.” ».
