Adrien Rabiot understands why the handball incident in Inter–Juventus is causing controversy in Italy but admits the Nerazzurri are weaker than ‘last season and two years ago.’
The Bianconeri midfielder released an exclusive interview with Tuttosport newspaper while on international duty with France.
He’s been one of Serie A’s best midfielders this season and was instrumental in Juventus’ 1-0 win over Inter on Sunday.
In the build-up to Filip Kostic’s winner in the first half, he appeared to touch the ball with his hand, but VAR could not find a conclusive angle.
“I’ve understood how it works in Italy, when there is something controversial, they talk about it for a long time,” said the France international.
“I understand football is like a religion in Italy, so it’s an important part of people’s lives. I understand why they talk so much about what happens on the pitch.”
Juventus have been handed a 15-point deduction for financial irregularities, but only Napoli have earned more points than the Bianconeri in 2023, so Max Allegri’s men are now seven points below the top four.
“Without the penalty, we would surely qualify for the Champions League, but given how things are going, we could even qualify if the penalty stands,” admitted Rabiot.
“I believe we can make it, we can put pressure on those in front and if we win Europa League, qualification would be automatic.”
Inter are one of their direct rivals for a Champions League placement as well as their opponent in the Coppa Italia semis.
“Honestly, I think they are not as strong as in the first part of the season, but even compared to the last campaign or two years ago,” said the Juventus midfielder.
“[On Sunday] I had the feeling they don’t have the same confidence. It’s not a coincidence that they’ve lost many games this season.”