Olympique de Marseille has officially placed Adrien Rabiot and Jonathan Rowe on the transfer list following a reported "extremely violent" altercation in the team's dressing room after their 1-0 defeat to Stade Rennais. The club announced the decision on August 19th, stating that the players' behavior was "unacceptable" and violated the club's internal code of conduct. Marseille's President, Pablo Longoria, described the incident as "incredible, violent, aggressive and went beyond any limits".
Reports indicate that the confrontation between Rabiot, a French midfielder, and Rowe, an English winger, involved serious threats and physical contact, requiring intervention from teammates and staff. The incident stemmed from frustrations over the team's performance in the loss to Rennes, a match where they played against 10 men for a significant portion of the game.
Marseille's coach, Roberto De Zerbi, has reportedly taken a firm stance, deeming the behavior intolerable and excluding both players from his plans. Some reports suggest De Zerbi wants Rabiot out of the club due to a perceived "lack of commitment". While Marseille initially denied reports of a physical fight, sources later confirmed that "blows were exchanged between the two men".
As a result of the suspensions, both Rabiot and Rowe missed training and are expected to miss upcoming matches. The club is also considering requesting that the players make financial contributions to the club's charitable foundation as a form of sanction and accountability.
Several clubs have already expressed interest in acquiring Rabiot, including Serie A giants Inter Milan, Juventus, and Roma. Juventus, where Rabiot previously played for five seasons, are reportedly keen on a reunion. Inter Milan are also considering Rabiot as a viable option, given his defensive skills and passing ability, and his affordable price tag of €15 million. AC Milan was also mentioned as a possible destination, however, Gianluca Di Marzio reports that Milan are not interested in signing Rabiot. Manchester United has also been offered Rabiot. Meanwhile, Jonathan Rowe has been linked with a move to Bologna.
Rabiot joined Marseille last season and was a key player in the squad, helping them secure Champions League qualification. He had a strong relationship with coach De Zerbi, who deployed him in various roles and helped him achieve a personal best of 10 goals and 5 assists. However, the dressing room bust-up has seemingly ended his time at the club.
The incident has once again cast a shadow on Marseille, a club known for its internal drama and controversies. The swift action taken by the club management underscores their commitment to maintaining discipline and professionalism within the squad.