From deep-lying midfielder to trequartista: A look at Adrien Rabiot under Milan coach Ruben Amorim | OneFootball

Despite usually occupying a deeper role within the central area of the pitch in order to provide stability within the midfield, Milan coach Ruben Amorim has found an arguably more efficient position for French international Adrien Rabiot, deploying him as an attacking midfielder behind the striker, a task in which the 31-year-old has flourished in since the start of the season.

La Gazzetta dello Sport indicates that the former Manchester United manager has seemingly handed this attacking midfielder role to Rabiot due to the needs of the squads rather than from his own free tactical ideologies given the injury issues of Christian Pulisic, the inconsistency of Ruben Loftus-Cheek, as well as the very recent arrival of Omari Hutchinson.

However, it seems that providing Rabiot with this position is far from a bad shout, as the Frenchman has demonstrated his ability to be a complete midfielder through his tactical understanding, experience, technique, and his vision of the game.

So far this season, the veteran midfielder seized two goals and two assists in the opening five matches of the 2026-27 Serie A campaign.

Particularly in the match against Lecce in which the Rossonerri seized a comfortable and convincing 3-0 win at the San Siro, Rabiot displayed his effectiveness in this new attacking midfield as he has a significance presence in the final third, bagging a goal in the 61st minute of play.

It is evident that Rabiot thrives in executing late runs into the box with vicious pace. However, the central-play maker showcases his understanding when the timing is right to move forward and support the attack whilst simultaneously protecting the middle of the pitch, complimenting his teammate Luka Modric very well.

The qualities demonstrated early on in the season proves Rabiot’s significance within the Rossonerri, which should undoubtedly be rewarded with a contract extension if the French international remains consistent.

Julian Faustini GIFN