Rabiot praises Donnarumma’s performance and admits France need time: “Part of the journey”

By: Ben Dixon

Last night, AC Milan’s Adrien Rabiot returned to San Siro – alongside Mike Maignan – as the French national team were beaten by Italy.

There was talk in the last international break that Zinedine Zidane wasn’t a huge fan of Rabiot. Yet, the midfielder was awarded the armband at San Siro. With this, a statement was made that the Frenchman needed to impress, but the trust was there for him to do so.

Whilst he could not lead his team to victory, though, there were several positives to take from the game, with one outlet giving him a 7/10.

It’s a frustrating defeat for Les Bleus – and a rare one for Rabiot and Maignan at San Siro – but it shows that they still have a lot to do with Zidane. After all, it’s better for these defeats to come now, rather than in a major tournament.

Speaking to Sky Sport (via MilanNews) after the game at San Siro, Rabiot praised the opposition goalkeeper – a remark made after an incredible save against him – as well as looking at where France stand after a few games under Zidane.

A leader of Milan and France. How much does this defeat weigh on the standings?

“It will be a tough game to play, the last one, because we need to win. The coach told us it’s part of the journey. We’re on a new path and we’re doing some things well, others a little less so. Tonight was a great game to watch.

“We did some very good things, but not so much in the second half. They showed a little more determination and deserved to win.”

What made the difference tonight?

“Donnarumma did well. We could have closed the game out in the first half because we were in a better position than them. In the second half, it was the opposite, even though he made two or three incredible saves. That’s part of football. They played a good game. They have strong, new players.

“It’s not easy, but I wish them the best because there’s a lot to do. It was an exciting match.”