Since his departure from Tottenham, André Villas-Boas has emerged as a potential candidate for Marseille’s coaching position next season, as suggested by Vincent Labrune and José Anigo. However, despite interest from the club, negotiations have hit a roadblock over salary considerations.
Villas-Boas, who has been linked to managerial positions in Turkey, Spain, and Russia, boasts an impressive track record, having won the Europa League with FC Porto in 2011. Labrune sees him as the ideal coach to rejuvenate Marseille, particularly given his fluency in French—a key requirement established since Elie Baup’s dismissal last December. However, talks have stalled due to financial constraints.
The former Spurs coach, known to have a desire to explore new leagues, including Ligue 1, may be financially out of reach for Marseille. An internal source revealed to L’Equipe that while Labrune admires Villas-Boas, the club might struggle to meet his salary demands, which reportedly peaked at 3 million euros net per year.
While negotiations with Villas-Boas remain uncertain, discussions with other French-speaking foreign candidates are being explored. Luciano Spalletti, recently sacked from Zenit Saint-Petersburg, has emerged as a potential alternative. Despite not having won a European Cup in his career, the former AS Roma manager is under consideration as Marseille weighs its options for the upcoming season.
