Marseille’s Adrien Rabiot has a chance to make a statement against his critics from Paris Saint-Germain when the two teams face off in the French league on Sunday.
Rabiot won five league titles with PSG and played over 200 games for them. For fans of both clubs, switching sides is seen as a major betrayal. Moving to Marseille was controversial, and Rabiot’s popularity among PSG supporters had already declined.
During his time at PSG, he was booed by fans during a Champions League match against Liverpool due to ongoing frustrations with his contract negotiations.
After that game in 2018, Rabiot’s mother and agent, Veronique Rabiot, said he could never return to PSG, where he had grown up in the youth academy and was once a fan favorite.
He later left to join Juventus, where he helped the team win the Serie A title in 2020 and two Italian Cups. Known for his strong defensive skills and good passing, Rabiot also became a key player for France, scoring during the 2022 World Cup.
At just 29 years old, with significant experience, it was a big deal when Marseille signed him on a free transfer this offseason, especially since he had offers from larger clubs.
In last Sunday’s 5-0 victory over Montpellier, Rabiot played well with teammates Amine Harit and Pierre-Emile Höjbjerg. Höjbjerg, who has four seasons in the Premier League with Tottenham and 85 caps for Denmark, is another strong addition for coach Roberto De Zerbi.
Sunday’s match might be the toughest challenge of the season for PSG, which is currently leading second-place Monaco on goal difference, with both teams still unbeaten.
If third-place Marseille wins, they will equal PSG’s points. PSG has had a tough time in the Champions League, losing to Arsenal and drawing with PSV Eindhoven at home on Tuesday.
With PSG’s midfield lacking strength, Marseille appears to have the advantage, which could put extra pressure on PSG’s defense.
Marseille forward Mason Greenwood scored a great goal and assisted Elye Wahi, who is a fast threat to the opposing defense.
PSG may start Randal Kolo Muani in the attack at Stade Velodrome after he recovered from a minor ankle injury. For safety reasons, no PSG fans will be allowed at the game due to the potential for clashes between rival supporters.
