Adrien Rabiot was one of the stars of the show in France’s World Cup win over Australia and a good tournament in Qatar might cause Juventus to reconsider things in the Piedmont capital.
The 27-year-old Frenchman made his World Cup debut in Les Bleus’ opening game of the tournament against Australia and he produced a strong performance, scoring the equaliser and providing the assist for Olivier Giroud’s first goal.
Rabiot played a key role in the midfield for France in their victory, completing 57 passes, taking 80 touches, playing nine passes into the final third and winning four tackles. Considering his season with Juventus, the Frenchman’s strong performance is hardly a surprise.
In the summer, Rabiot was heavily linked with a move to Manchester United and Juventus were ready to sell, only for the deal to collapse due to his high wage demands. Entering the final year of his contract with the Bianconeri, some expected a relatively quiet campaign from the 27-year-old as he sees out his time in Turin, but he’s been one of the best for Massimiliano Allegri this season.
Rabiot has appeared in 16 games across Serie A and the Champions League this campaign, scoring five goals and providing two assists. He’s impressed both offensively and defensively, averaging 2.61 shot-creating actions per 90, 0.96 completed dribbles per 90, 0.96 tackles won per 90 and 1.06 aerials won per 90.
Injuries to Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kante have made the 27-year-old Juventus midfielder an important reference point for Didier Deschamps and his squad. A strong World Cup in Qatar could be exactly what he needs as he enters the final six months of his contract in Turin, and there’s a chance that it could lead to some reflections.
Renewal negotiations were left at a deadlock following Rabiot’s high wage requests, wanting to be one of the best paid players in the squad, but there’s still time for Juventus to change their minds and return to the table with a more convincing offer.
Recent media reports have increasingly linked them with a move for Lazio star Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, suggesting the resources are there if needed, and the World Cup could lead to a change in strategy in Turin.
Why the hell would you give this clown a new and improved 4 year contract? He’s been bang average for 3 years and all of a sudden surprise surprise he starts playing well.
Hopefully he’s the last of the free transfers on big wages that have been a disaster for us.
If we can get SMS great ,bring Rovella back and with Pogba Fagioli and Mirretti we have the best midfield we have had in years.
Perhaps because he is finally playing in his position we are seeing his talent and leadership. Fiscally it would potentially cost less to renew him on a bigger contract than purchasing SMS and wages…I agree with Rob’s comment, free transfer and big wage strategy has been a disaster.