Adrien Rabiot reflected on Juventus’ difficulties last season and weighed in on the suspensions of teammates Paul Pogba and Nicolo Fagioli.
The Bianconeri were rocked by various off-pitch issues last term, which saw president Andrea Agnelli and their board of directors resign before being punished for falsified capital gains. They were handed a points deduction in Serie A and agreed a deal with UEFA to miss out on European competition for one year.
Things have continued to be difficult for Juventus off the pitch this season, with Paul Pogba failing a doping test early in the campaign and Nicolo Fagioli being handed a lengthy ban for illegal betting. Despite this, the club sit just two points behind league leaders Inter.
Speaking to DAZN via Calciomercato.com, Rabiot first remembered when he decided to sign for Juventus back in 2019.
“I had met Allegri the season before arriving at Juventus and it was he who wanted me here, but when I signed, he left straight away.
“When we met again there was immediate chemistry. I had come for six months without playing, I had received some criticism and I still had to adapt, but I grew a lot.”
He was asked about the club’s off-pitch issues last season.
“We suffered a lot from the off-field stuff. This is why we want to win and demonstrate that we are Juventus. There is enthusiasm, less experience, but more energy.”
The French midfielder gave his thoughts on Pogba and Fagioli’s suspensions.
“In these cases, it’s never easy, they are strong players who can give us a hand and it’s difficult not to have them on the pitch.
“Paul is very important for the team, he has experience and gives enthusiasm, Fagioli trains a lot, but it’s always difficult.”
He kept it brief when asked about a contract renewal with Juventus. His current deal expires at the end of the season.
“We’ll talk about it later.”
Finally, Rabiot discussed his dream for his career.
“If I had to choose between the Champions League, the World Cup and the European Championship, I would choose the Champions League because I believe it is the most difficult competition to win.”