Adrien Rabiot arriving in Milan, ready to embark on a new chapter.
In a move that has sent ripples of excitement—and perhaps a few skeptical murmurs—through the footballing world, French midfielder Adrien Rabiot has officially joined AC Milan. Eschewing immediate Champions League football, Rabiot`s decision is deeply rooted in a familiar face: coach Massimiliano Allegri, and a compelling vision for the future of the Rossoneri.
The Maestro and His Midfielder: A Reunion Forged in Ambition
The number 12, an intriguing choice for a player who has never sported it, now graces Rabiot`s Milan jersey. But beyond mere numerology, this figure seems to symbolize a deeper ambition. His personal best goal tally in a season stands at 11, achieved with Juventus under Allegri. Now, with the iconic red and black, he aims for 12, or more, as a subtle nod to his former—and now current—mentor.
Rabiot`s connection with Allegri transcends the typical player-coach dynamic. “With Allegri, I shared so much,” Rabiot stated, emphasizing an “immediate feeling” and a shared “ambition and desire to win.” This wasn`t merely a professional courtesy; their bond continued even after Allegri`s departure from Juventus, marked by ongoing conversations and personal meetings. The coach, it seems, “vehemently” requested Rabiot`s services at Milan, a testament to their mutual respect.
“For me, before being a great coach, he is a great person, and I am very happy to find him here.”
— Adrien Rabiot on Massimiliano Allegri
This unwavering trust in Allegri’s project was pivotal. While other clubs, currently basking in the glow of Champions League participation, sought Rabiot’s signature, his allegiance lay with Milan’s long-term vision and Allegri`s tactical blueprint for success. It’s a calculated risk, perhaps, but one Rabiot seems genuinely eager to take.
Project Over Prestige: A Clear Path to Glory
Rabiot’s immediate objective is clear: contribute to Milan`s success, starting from day one. He has expressed a keen desire to play in the upcoming match, ready to “do everything to help the team win on Sunday.” This eagerness reflects a player motivated not by past accolades, but by future triumphs.
The decision to join Milan, despite their absence from the current Champions League campaign, speaks volumes. Rabiot views this season as an investment, “more important to play for Milan than to play in the Champions League this year” if it means being part of a project that aims to return to Europe`s elite competition next season. The ultimate ambition? The Scudetto.
“I came with the ambition to win the Scudetto; whoever comes here does so to win. We will see where the team is in March.”
— Adrien Rabiot
This candid declaration suggests a pragmatism often seen in Allegri himself. There’s no grandstanding, just a focus on the incremental steps towards tangible success. It appears the “simbiosi totale” Rabiot spoke of extends beyond personal rapport to a shared philosophical approach to football.
Closing Chapters: The Rowe Incident and Milan`s Allure
A minor footnote in Rabiot`s recent past was his altercation with Rowe at Olympique Marseille, a incident that, by his own admission, led to both players seeking new clubs. However, Rabiot deftly brushed aside any lingering animosity.
“There`s nothing special with Rowe,” he stated, revealing they had communicated and wished each other well upon their respective transfers. This display of professionalism and sportsmanship, a calm dismissal of tabloid fodder, aligns with the composed demeanor he brought to his introductory press conference.
Beyond Allegri, the lure of Milan was amplified by positive endorsements from his French compatriots already at the club. Mike Maignan and Theo Hernández painted a picture of a “great club and a family,” reinforcing Rabiot’s conviction that he was making the right choice.
Leadership, Versatility, and Personal Goals
Adrien Rabiot isn`t just a midfielder; he sees himself as a leader, ready to guide younger players and bring a winning mentality to the squad. His versatility is another asset, capable of playing “everywhere in the middle” and even in a more advanced role, as he did under De Zerbi. Yet, his heart, and tactical preference, lies as a left mezzala.
His personal goals are intertwined with the team`s: “I want to continue to have this hunger to win, score goals and assists, have fun, and help the youngsters.” With a target of at least 10 seasonal goals, Rabiot is setting a high bar for himself, mirroring the high expectations placed upon AC Milan to consistently compete for trophies and secure their place in the Champions League.
As Rabiot embarks on this new chapter, the stage is set for a narrative rich in ambition, strategic partnership, and the pursuit of glory. His arrival at AC Milan is more than just a transfer; it`s a statement of intent, echoing the club`s own hunger to reclaim its storied position at the pinnacle of European football.