Rabiot Chose Juventus Because Of Ronaldo And Buffon

By Max Wise

Juventus’ latest recruit Adrien Rabiot says the chance to play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo as well as Gianluigi Buffon’s advice influenced his decision to join the Italian champions over other suitors.

Rabiot arrived in Turin on Sunday ahead of his medical and was confirmed as a Juventus player on Monday on a free transfer from Paris Saint Germain.

The 24-year-old was linked with a host of clubs including Manchester United while PSG tried to convince him to sign a new deal at the Parc des Princes; even going to the extent of ostracizing him from the first team from the second half of last season when he refused to do so.

The French international has now admitted the opportunity to call five-time Ballon d’or winner, Ronaldo, a teammate proved too tempting to resist.

"I had the chance to grow up playing with top players, which helped me a lot," Rabiot said.

"Ronaldo is a great champion. The chance to play with him definitely had a bearing on my decision.

"But I know the whole dressing room is packed with world-class players and a positive spirit."

Rabiot played alongside Buffon at PSG last season as they claimed the Ligue 1 title, and the Frenchman has revealed some sage words from the veteran Italian goalkeeper made his decision an easy one.

"Gigi spoke to me a lot about Juventus and his opinion matters a lot," the six-cap France international said.

"He knows the club very well and told me many interesting things.

"He told me that if I wanted to take a step forward in my career I had to choose Juve, so I did. I have a lot of respect for him and I listened to him.

"Juve is a very prestigious club with great experience in Europe. They often reach the last stages.

"As I see it, I'm at a club which is clearly at a higher level of PSG, which is what inspired me a lot to make this choice."

Rabiot is Juventus’ second free summer signing following the Old Lady’s acquisition of Aaron Ramsey from Arsenal.