Anyone who thought Massimiliano Allegri would give Adrien Rabiot a rest yesterday was proved wrong, and he once again impressed.
As MilanNews recall, Rabiot again remained on the pitch for the full 90 minutes despite the fact Milan were three goals up against Lecce from relatively early in the second-half, and the opposition had been reduced to 10 men.
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Allegri strongly pushed for the signing of the Frenchman, and he immediately put the former Juventus player at the heart of the midfield. Rabiot responded with top-notch performances across all three of his starts.
Friends reunited
Signed from Marseille in late August, Rabiot arrived at Milanello only after the September international break. Despite limited training with his new team-mates, Allegri decided to start him against Bologna, and it was immediately clear what he could bring to Milan.
The former PSG man has shown his work rate, quality and mentality, all of which were also evident in the subsequent matches against Udinese (in Serie A) and Lecce (Coppa Italia). Having already worked with Allegri for several years at Juventus, the Frenchman knows exactly what the coach wants.
Rabiot’s impact has been ‘devastating’ so far, so much so that he’s already become a driving force and a leader. Fabio Capello even remarked: “He’s the most important addition of all to be able to fight for the Scudetto.”
Only time will tell if this will actually be the case, but what is certain is that the acquisition of Rabiot – combined with that of Luka Modric – has transformed the midfield from a weakness in to a strength.
I watch 2-3 last Milan games. I understand now why allegri wanted rabiot so badly. He make some difference about passing, tactical approach and mentality.
100%
We wanted him ever since he’s free agent last year regardless the coach.
He’s an all-rounder, he defends, goes forward and distributes the ball very well.
Rabiot is the great equalizer in midfield. Drives forward when he has to. Bulldozes at the back and relieves defensive duties from Modric when he has to. Huge reason why Milan hasn’t conceded much so far this season – because of Rabiot and the midfield.
Intelligent signing.