Midfielder Adrien Rabiot could have to carry the entire Juventus midfield on his back against Inter Milan this evening.

This is the view in today’s print edition of Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, via FCInterNews.

Rabiot has not not always been a player who has earned universal praise during his time at Juventus.

The Frenchman arrived on a free transfer during the summer of 2019, joining from Paris Saint-Germain.

The Bianconeri may not have paid a transfer fee for Rabiot. But the midfielder’s wages are among the Turin giants’ highest as a consequence.

And many Juventus fans have long questioned whether Rabiot truly justifies the big money that the club are paying him.

Rabiot’s qualities are undeniable. Particularly with the ball at his feet, the 28-year-old has a rare combination of height, strength, and pace with close control.

But there have been question marks about Rabiot’s tactical fit, and sloppiness in his play.

Adrien Rabiot Central To Juventus Vs Inter

In the past couple seasons, however, Rabiot has begun to answer his critics.

The Frenchman’s performances under Max Allegri have been more and more consistent.

Both defensively and in possession, Rabiot has had a major impact. The former PSG man’s physicality and directness have proven to be well-suited to Allegri’s tactical vision.

And this has also made Rabiot more and more of a leader for the Bianconeri.

The 28-year-old’s outspokenness and fiery temper have become an asset rather than a liability, on and off the pitch.

Furthermore, Rabiot has saved some of his best performances in a Juventus shirt for Inter. That is certainly not a problem in the eyes of the Bianconeri faithful.

And the Frenchman may have to save one of his best for this evening’s Derby d’Italia.

Beyond the obvious significance of the match for the rivalry, this evening’s clash also has the feel of a potential title-decider.

And Juventus could be without their other midfield pillar, Manuel Locatelli. Even if the Italian is fit enough to start, he is unlikely to be at his best.

This puts the responsibility on the shoulders of Rabiot to make the midfield tick over in the biggest of matches, Tuttosport argues.