Rabiot criticizes MetLife Stadium pitch following World Cup match
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 10:06 AM
Last updated Jun 17, 2026
Adrien Rabiot raised concerns about the pitch quality at MetLife Stadium after France's 3-1 victory over Senegal. The midfielder described the surface as resembling an artificial turf, feeling hard and rigid. Rabiot's remarks align with those of Vinicius Junior, who also criticized the dry conditions affecting play during Brazil's match against Morocco. The 78,576-capacity stadium, which has had a temporary grass pitch installed for the World Cup, is set to host crucial matches, including England's group game against Panama and the World Cup final. Senegal will face Norway at the venue on June 22.
- •Rabiot played the full match and assisted for France's second goal.
- •MetLife Stadium is home to NFL teams New York Giants and Jets.
- •Pitch concerns were echoed by Brazil's Vinicius Junior after their game.
- •Senegal's next match at the stadium is against Norway on June 22.
- •Temporary grass pitches installed at 16 World Cup venues this summer.
- 10:06 AMYahoo Sports — Rabiot raises concerns about MetLife Stadium pitch
- 10:06 AMBBC Sport — Rabiot raises concerns about MetLife Stadium pitch
"France midfielder Adrien Rabiot raises concerns about the quality of the pitch at the New York New Jersey Stadium, describing it as "more like an artificial surface".
"France midfielder Adrien Rabiot raises concerns about the quality of the pitch at the New York New Jersey Stadium, describing it as "more like an artificial surface".
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 17, 2026, 10:06 AMRabiot raises concerns about MetLife Stadium pitch
France midfielder Adrien Rabiot raises concerns about the quality of the pitch at the New York New Jersey Stadium, describing it as "more like an artificial surface".
- BBC SportJun 17, 2026, 10:06 AMRabiot raises concerns about MetLife Stadium pitch
France midfielder Adrien Rabiot raises concerns about the quality of the pitch at the New York New Jersey Stadium, describing it as "more like an artificial surface".
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