‘We are shocked’ – Marseille responds to controversy surrounding Sporting Director Medhi Benatia

Olympique de Marseille expressed strong shock over recent allegations against their Medhi Benatia, the club’s sporting director, during a press conference ahead of their Ligue 1 match against AJ Auxerre.

The accusations, published by La Provence, questioned Benatia’s influence within the club and reported tensions with staff members, including former disputes over the signing of Mason Greenwood.

Bel-Abbès Bouaissi, Marseille’s director of communications, addressed the situation, saying, “OM is extremely shocked by a report published this morning about Medhi Benatia. The report consists of accusatory articles and unfounded insinuations, probably based on dubious sources and leaving little room for rebuttal.”

He added, “This type of behaviour and approach undermines the work of the club and its staff at a crucial time in the sporting calendar, which requires a spirit of collective responsibility and calm.”

The three-part investigation cited around 20 anonymous sources and detailed Benatia’s increasing influence at Marseille, spanning youth development, communications, and first-team affairs.

The report even suggested tensions with former manager Roberto De Zerbi, and alleged that Greenwood was nearly pushed out of the club due to criticisms from Benatia regarding his defensive contribution and work ethic.

Despite the off-field controversy, Marseille remain third in the Ligue 1 standings, having recently overtaken Olympique Lyonnais for a podium finish and potential Champions League qualification. Les Olympiens return to action on Friday at the Stade Vélodrome against Auxerre following a 1-0 victory over Toulouse FC last weekend.