Djibril Cissé has voiced his support for Habib Beye as a potential new manager for Olympique de Marseille, while cautioning that winning over players used to Roberto De Zerbi could be crucial to his success.
Beye, who is currently a free agent after leaving Stade Rennais, has been linked with the Marseille job as the Ligue 1 side searches for a replacement for De Zerbi.
Speaking about the Senegalese coach, former Marseille striker Cissé praised his experience and familiarity with the club.
“Habib has what it takes,” Cissé said. “Even as a player, he had that managerial side, that ability to give advice. I can see it coming. He knows the club.”
Cissé’s endorsement highlights Beye’s tactical and leadership credentials, but the former striker also stressed the human aspect of taking over a squad assembled under a previous coach.
“It’s more about the mental aspect. How will he get the players back? How will those who came for De Zerbi react? That’s my only fear,” he explained, noting that managing the dressing room will be a key test for the new coach.
Beye’s move to Marseille is also complicated by unresolved matters with his former club.
Reports indicate that his departure from Rennes, where he left the team in sixth place, is still being finalised legally.
The club’s administrative and legal teams are reportedly negotiating the terms of the contract termination, a necessary step before Beye can officially join Marseille.
For Cissé, however, a successful transition from Rennes to Marseille would mark a major milestone for the young coach.
“Having Rennes and Marseille on your CV is extraordinary,” he said. The timing of the legal clearance, though, will need to align with Marseille’s urgent sporting requirements.
Until that process is complete, Beye’s appointment remains a promising option, but one that comes with the challenge of uniting a squad loyal to his predecessor.
