Medhi Benatia leaves Olympique de Marseille role as club confirm departure

Olympique de Marseille have confirmed that Medhi Benatia has left his position at the club, bringing an end to his spell in the club’s football leadership structure following a period of involvement spanning more than two years.

The announcement was made on Saturday, 16 May, with Marseille stating that both parties have ended their collaboration after what has been described as a committed working relationship within the club’s sporting project.

Club owner Frank McCourt paid tribute to Benatia’s contribution during his time in Marseille’s hierarchy, highlighting the impact of the former defender on the organisation.

“I would like to thank Medhi Benatia for his sincere commitment to Olympique de Marseille,” said Frank McCourt.

The owner of Olympique de Marseille thus emphasized the role played by the former Moroccan defender within the Marseille sporting project.

Benatia also issued a farewell message following his departure, reflecting on his return to the club where he began his professional career and expressing appreciation for the trust placed in him during his time in a leadership role.

“I returned to OM with the desire to serve this club, which means so much to me, and the will to do my best. I want to thank Frank McCourt for the unwavering trust he placed in me.

This bond will remain etched in my memory. I wish Olympique de Marseille all the success it deserves. This club, this city, these fans fully deserve it,” declared Medhi Benatia. His words reflect his deep attachment to the club and its community.

Benatia initially rejoined Marseille at the end of 2023 as a sporting advisor before being promoted to Director of Football at the start of 2025.

His departure now brings closure to a chapter in which he contributed to the club’s sporting direction during a transitional period.

Olympique de Marseille acknowledged his work in an official statement, thanking him for his service and wishing him success in his future endeavours.

The club has now closed this section of its leadership structure, moving forward without one of its key recent football figures.