"Olympique de Marseille live precariously, attempting to harness the volcanic passion that flows through the club, without it enveloping it entirely. Treading such a fine line is easier said than done, and just a single goal, even one on the opening day of the season, is enough to trigger a meltdown of epic proportions. Ludovic Blas's injury-time winner for Rennes in the first game of the season was the trigger for what has now been termed by French media as The Rabiot Affair."
"The England Under-21 international was involved in a bust-up with Adrien Rabiot following the 1-0 defeat by Rennes. The sporting director, Medhi Benatia, confirmed that punches were thrown, while the club president, Pablo Longoria, spoke of incredible violence. Between teammates and staff attempting to break up the fight and one of OM's youngsters, Darryl Bakola, fainting in the dressing room, it was a scene befitting a Renaissance painting."
Olympique de Marseille balances volcanic fan passion with fragile club stability, where a single goal can trigger extreme reactions. Ludovic Blas's injury-time winner for Rennes ignited a violent dressing-room confrontation between Adrien Rabiot and England Under-21 Jonathan Rowe. Sporting director Medhi Benatia said punches were thrown and president Pablo Longoria described the incident as incredibly violent. Staff and teammates intervened while youngster Darryl Bakola fainted in the dressing room. Rabiot's mother, Veronique, sought to downplay the event, but Marseille suspended and then transfer-listed both players for unacceptable behaviour. The club also cited perceived lack of commitment from Rabiot during pre-season.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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