It was only a few months ago when Manchester United fans rejoiced at news that a potential transfer for Adrien Rabiot had collapsed.
Now, just months later, the 27-year-old has been described as ‘a complete midfielder’ by national team boss Didier Deschamps. In the absence of Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kante, Rabiot has thrived in France’s World Cup campaign.
His performances beg the question, how did such a supremely talented player end up with such a controversial reputation – both on and off the pitch?
Here, Sportsmail takes a look at the maverick midfielder, his mother-turned-agent Veronique and the impressive turnaround that he’s made in half a year.
Adrien Rabiot has been a standout player for France during their 2022 World Cup campaign
The midfielder has had a remarkable turnaround from his international exile two years ago
Veronique Rabiot watches on from the stands during France’s group stage clash with Tunisia
It was in August when Rabiot was referred to as a ‘failed signing’ from Fabio Paratici’s time as Juventus sporting director.
Brought in from French giants PSG on a free transfer – with 18 major titles under his belt – the midfielder had been tipped to be a huge success for the Old Lady.
But three seasons and 127 appearances later and Juventus were willing to part ways with him for just £15million – having provided zero goals and two assists during last year’s campaign.
Man United were interested in his services and, after agreeing a fee, it should’ve been plain sailing to finalise details with the midfielder. But, as United quickly found out, negotiations with Rabiot and his team seldom go smoothly.
Adrien Rabiot’s excessive wage demands are said to have got in the way of a Man United move
Erik ten Hag had hoped to make Rabiot one of his first signings as Manchester United coach
The Red Devils eventually pulled out of the deal after failing to agree personal terms with the midfielder, who had demanded an extraordinary salary to join the club.
Enter Veronique – Rabiot’s mother and agent – who took charge of his career after his father, Michel Provost, suffered a stroke in 2007 that left him with locked-in syndrome.
Wherever Adrien has gone, Veronique has not been far behind. In 2012, when PSG were planning on a mid-season trip to Qatar, she insisted that she should be allowed to accompany the squad.
‘From a very young age, she followed me everywhere, in England, in the south of France. She has…