Marseille in Crisis: De Zerbi Compares Rabiot-Rowe Clash to "Bar Brawl" as Transfer Fallout Deepens
Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi reveals shocking details of Adrien Rabiot and Jonathan Rowe's locker room altercation, comparing it to a street brawl as both players face transfer exits following the unprecedented incident.
Explosive Locker Room Incident Rocks Marseille Camp
Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi has taken drastic action following "the most violent confrontation I've witnessed in football" between midfield stalwart Adrien Rabiot and rising star Jonathan Rowe. The shocking altercation occurred moments after Marseille's dramatic 1-0 opening day defeat to Rennes in Ligue 1, with tempers flaring in the Stade Louis II visitors' dressing room.
The Incident Breakdown
- Occurred during medical treatment for teammate Darryl Bakola
- Required intervention from club security personnel
- Described as "extremely violent" by president Pablo Longoria
- Resulted in immediate transfer listing of both players
De Zerbi drew parallels to urban street conflicts, stating: "These were professionals throwing punches like drunken pub rivals. Our security team usually protects us from fans – not our own players."
Fallout and Transfer Implications
Adrien Rabiot (30 years old):
- 32 appearances, 10 goals since free transfer from Juventus
- Linked with Monaco and Manchester United
- Mother/agent Véronique claims "betrayal" by club
Jonathan Rowe (22 years old):
- Permanent signing after Norwich City loan
- 3 goals in 31 appearances
- Bologna showing strong interest
Managerial Backlash
De Zerbi fired back at criticism: "I made Rabiot captain – showed him more care than my own family. Comparing this to Mason Greenwood's situation? Absurd. This was workplace violence, not personal redemption."
Historical Context
- First major disciplinary crisis since De Zerbi's 2024 appointment
- Marseille finished 2nd in Ligue 1 last season
- Club faces UEFA Champions League playoff in 3 weeks
What's Next for Marseille?
- Emergency midfield reinforcements being sought
- Psychological evaluation for entire squad ordered
- Potential points deduction if LFP investigates
- Fan protests planned outside Orange Vélodrome
The incident raises serious questions about player discipline in modern football, particularly with Marseille's crucial European fixtures approaching.
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