RMC Sport: Rabiot potentially ‘incompatible’ with Zidane’s system as France shine

AC Milan expected to see Adrien Rabiot starting for France last night in a crucial game against Belgium. However, the midfielder found himself as an unused substitute.

In recent years, Rabiot has been a go-to in midfield for the French national team and when Zinedine Zidane started him in his first game – after a solid World Cup – there were no shocks. So, when he was dropped for the second Nations League game, questions have been asked.

Rabiot no longer a starter for France?

This morning, RMC Sport have suggested that Rabiot may actually not be the best fit for Zidane’s style of play. Under Didier Deschamps, the midfielder was undroppable and it even seemed that he was in contention to captain the side against Belgium.

However, he wasn’t given a minute by the new head coach and it didn’t effect his team. In fact, the report states that the midfield was the strongest part of the French team against the Red Devils. Rabiot’s replacement, Lucas Da Cunha, also ‘shone’, leading to the suggestions that Rabiot might not be compatible.

It’s early on, of course, so things could change for Zidane. However, it’s not a great early suggestion to be hearing – or maybe it is, if it means Rabiot gets more chance to rest and is managed better.