The future of midfielder Adrien Rabiot at Olympique de Marseille remains highly uncertain as the transfer window approaches its final days. Coach Roberto De Zerbi has reportedly taken a step back, distancing himself from the ongoing situation after a period of mixed signals.
Last weekend, the Italian coach had surprised many following OM’s dominant 5-2 victory over Paris FC, by suggesting there was still an opportunity to “repair things” with the French international. This statement appeared to contradict the firm stance taken by president Pablo Longoria and sporting director Mehdi Benatia, who had moved to place Rabiot on the transfer list after an altercation with teammate Jonathan Rowe earlier in the month, following a defeat to Rennes.
Jonathan Rowe has since completed his planned move to Bologna, while Rabiot continues to train separately from the main squad. Despite his isolated status, the midfielder remains in Marseille, and the ambiguity surrounding his future dominated De Zerbi`s pre-match press conference on Friday, held before OM’s crucial trip to Lyon.
De Zerbi sought to clarify his previous remarks, stating, “This is now between Adrien and the club.” He further elaborated, “My comments were not directed against the president or the club. I advised Rabiot to approach the club, to apologize for what occurred in Rennes, as the situation has been amplified by his entourage. If there is humility, perhaps things can be rebuilt. However, if ego and pride get in the way, then I don`t know what the outcome will be.”
President Longoria, speaking at Thursday’s Champions League draw, also attempted to quell speculation. He clarified that his earlier comments on Canal+ about an “open door” had been misinterpreted, insisting, “That applies to every player, not only Adrien.”
While Rabiot has apologized for his clash with Rowe, a more significant challenge for the club remains the public criticisms leveled by Rabiot’s mother and agent, Véronique, towards OM’s hierarchy. Negotiations with interested clubs are reportedly ongoing, but with the transfer deadline looming, Adrien Rabiot’s future at Marseille continues to be shrouded in doubt.
This article presents a rephrased summary of the original news report.
