French FA condemns Rabiot's 'bad decision' to withdraw from standby list

The French FA issued a statement Wednesday condemning Adrien Rabiot's decision to refuse a position on the country's World Cup standby list.

The 23-year-old was one of many talented players who failed to make the cut when France announced the star-studded 23-man squad that will compete in the World Cup in Russia next month.

Upon his exclusion, Rabiot, who was a key component during Paris Saint-Germain's treble-winning campaign, reportedly emailed France manager Didier Deschamps and rejected the reserve role, explaining that he would not be able to follow the training program sent to the 11 players on standby.

Considering his positive attitude in the past, the French FA expressed its disappointment over the player's position, but explained that no sanctions will be taken against Rabiot as it believes a worthy punishment will take place if a midfield spot in the national team becomes vacant.

"Adrien Rabiot is a high quality player and an endearing boy who has always behaved well in national selections where he has evolved,” a statement read, as translated by Harry Edwards of Squawka.

“His reaction is therefore very surprising. His disappointment does not allow him to give up and not to serve the Team de France.

“To be part of the collective of the Team of France, to be among the thirty best French players, is a chance and a privilege in the career of a player.

"Adrien made a bad decision. He penalises himself and sanctions himself alone.”

Deschamps contested that players must be professional when it comes to being selected by the national team.

"I was obviously surprised," Deschamps said, according to the Associated Press. "I can understand his immense disappointment but I'm convinced he made a huge mistake. Hopefully it will help him grow up and think. When you play at the highest level, you can let your emotions take over."

He added: "The France team is above everything. I'm surprised because he is a young player, with only a few caps."

Rabiot has made six appearances for the national team since winning his first senior cap in 2016. He was also placed on the standby list ahead of the European Championship in France two years ago.

The other 10 players on the standby list include: Wissam Ben Yedder (Sevilla), Kingsley Coman (Bayern Munich), Benoit Costil (Bordeaux), Mathieu Debuchy (Saint-Etienne), Lucas Digne (Barcelona), Anthony Martial (Manchester United), Alexandre Lacazette (Arsenal), Mamadou Sakho (Crystal Palace), Moussa Sissoko (Tottenham), and Kurt Zouma (Chelsea).