Adrien Rabiot

World Cup 2026 Analysis

Adrien Rabiot's prospects for the FIFA World Cup 2026 appear strong, especially as he has recently recovered from a calf injury and is back in contention for AC Milan. His consistent presence in the French national team and his experience in major tournaments position him well for a spot in Didier Deschamps' squad.

Latest News and Form:

Adrien Rabiot completed a move to AC Milan in September 2025, signing a three-year contract after leaving Juventus and a brief stint at Marseille. He was unfortunately sidelined in October 2025 due to a calf muscle injury sustained during international duty with France while playing in a World Cup qualifier against Azerbaijan, an injury initially thought to be minor but later confirmed as a lesion that would keep him out for several weeks. However, by mid-November 2025, Rabiot had fully recovered and was set to return to full training with AC Milan, making him available for important matches like the Milan derby against Inter.

Prior to his injury, Rabiot had been called up for France's 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign in September 2025, facing Ukraine and Iceland. He also participated in the 2025 UEFA Nations League, featuring in matches against Spain and Germany in June 2025. In December 2025, Rabiot commented on France's 2026 World Cup draw, acknowledging it as a "tough group" but expressing readiness for the challenge.

Analysis of FIFA World Cup 2026 Prospects:

Rabiot, who turned 30 in April 2025, brings a wealth of experience to the midfield, having participated in UEFA Euro 2020, the 2022 FIFA World Cup (where France reached the final and he scored against Australia), and Euro 2024. His ability to dictate tempo and control transitions has been highlighted as vital to his club's tactical setup. Didier Deschamps has consistently shown faith in Rabiot, even calling him up for national duty despite a club-level disciplinary issue at Marseille prior to his AC Milan move.

RMC Sport, in August 2025, understood that Deschamps was expected to pick five midfielders for upcoming World Cup qualifiers: Warren Zaïre-Emery, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Mattéo Guendouzi, Manu Koné, and Adrien Rabiot. This indicates that Rabiot remains a key figure in Deschamps' plans. As of December 2025, Rabiot's FC 26 rating is 84 with a potential of 84, playing as a central midfielder for AC Milan, demonstrating his continued high standing in the football world.

Despite the recent injury, his quick recovery and immediate return to top-flight action suggest he will be able to maintain his form and fitness leading up to the 2026 World Cup. His experience and established role within the French squad make him a strong candidate for inclusion.