Rabiot dismisses criticism: 'I don’t have to explain myself to anyone'

In 2016, when asked if he could ever see himself playing for Olympique Marseille, Adrien Rabiot had made it clear: "Impossible."

His loyalty to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), where he spent his formative years and became a key figure, seemed unwavering. At that time, Rabiot dismissed any notion of joining PSG’s archrival, even when the club expressed interest in signing him. He bluntly remarked, "I thought it was a joke. For me, it was unthinkable to play for Marseille."

Fast forward to 2024, and Rabiot’s stance has completely changed. Now a free agent after leaving Juventus, the midfielder has signed a contract with none other than Marseille the club he once claimed he could never represent. His move has sent ripples through French football, reigniting debates over loyalty and player decisions. PSG supporters, who once cheered Rabiot, have now voiced their displeasure. But for Rabiot, this transition is simply a part of his personal and professional evolution.

During a press conference on Wednesday, when confronted with his past statements, Rabiot showed little concern for the backlash. The 29-year-old midfielder remained unfazed, responding confidently: "I don’t have to explain myself to anyone. I determine the path of my career." Rabiot's response indicates a shift in his mindset. His career choices are now shaped by practicality, personal growth, and new ambitions, rather than the rivalries of his younger years.

"Nothing seems impossible in life," Rabiot continued, reflecting on how time and experience have changed his outlook. The veteran midfielder, who recently represented France in the European Championship, explained that his past comments were made in a different context. "There are things you say when you’re young. When you have more life experience and find yourself in different circumstances, you think differently." His decision to join Marseille, once unthinkable, now makes sense to him. "I made this decision thoughtfully, and I’m genuinely happy to be at this club."

Rabiot acknowledged that some PSG fans may feel betrayed by his choice. "Some may be disappointed," he admitted. For a player who spent over a decade at PSG and helped the club secure multiple domestic titles, his move to their fiercest rivals is understandably controversial. However, Rabiot stressed that this decision was his to make. "This choice was mine," he emphasized, reiterating that his career is his responsibility and that he’s determined to follow his own path, regardless of outside opinions.

Interestingly, Rabiot revealed that Marseille had always intrigued him, even during his years at PSG. "When I was young, I actually enjoyed watching Marseille," he said. "Especially when I was around ten, I followed everything." His remarks suggest that his admiration for Marseille dates back to his early football-watching days, even if his professional career initially took him in a different direction. Now, Rabiot looks forward to playing for the club he once admired from afar.

As for his expectations at Marseille, Rabiot expressed excitement about joining one of the most passionate fan bases in world football. "I’m looking forward to playing for one of the most passionate fan bases in the world," he said. The move to Marseille represents not only a new challenge for Rabiot but also an opportunity to lead and play a pivotal role for a club that is hungry for success both domestically and in Europe.

His move to Marseille, while controversial, represents a bold step in a career filled with highs and lows. It highlights how players’ perspectives can evolve over time and how football’s shifting dynamics can lead even the most unlikely transfers to become reality. Rabiot’s journey from PSG to Marseille, once an "impossible" idea, now symbolizes his personal growth and the unpredictable nature of modern football. While his past with PSG may cast a long shadow, Rabiot’s focus is firmly on his future with Marseille, where he hopes to make an impact and win over a new set of fans.