AP, Paris :
Adrien Rabiot was once one of Paris Saint-Germain’s most promising players: a talented local lad who rose through the ranks to become a huge fan favorite.
Now the relationship between PSG, Rabiot and the fans is so toxic it’s beyond repair.
“Because the situation has completely deteriorated, there is no way back,” his mother and agent Veronique Rabiot told RTL radio on Wednesday.
PSG fans jeered Rabiot when he came on in a Champions League game against Liverpool last month. Like the club, they have grown weary of endless contract talks.
PSG’s patience snapped this week and it looks like Rabiot is certain to be sold in January – providing a sad end to what should have been a PSG fairytale.
Born in the Val-de-Marne region of Paris, the 23-year-old Rabiot joined PSG aged 15. A lanky attacking midfielder with great physique, silky touch and an excellent passing range, he has played 226 games and won multiple domestic titles with PSG.
A sure sign Rabiot’s time is up came on Tuesday when, a day after being criticized by the club’s sporting director Antero Henrique, he was left out for a League Cup game against second division Orleans.
That decision was made despite PSG needing to rotate players to prevent fatigue later on, notably in the Champions League. When perhaps he should have been rested, Angel Di Maria played in a physical contest against weaker opposition and picked up an ankle injury.
Speaking about Rabiot’s predicament, PSG coach Thomas Tuchel said: “I love the player. But the situation has lasted a long time.”
Rabiot’s current contract expires next June, after which he will cost nothing – an unwanted situation considering PSG needs to raise cash in light of Financial Fair Play concerns. Spanish champion Barcelona is reportedly preparing a January bid, and Rabiot’s ability to play long or short passes quickly seems suited to Barca’s fluid style.
