Medhi Benatia offered to resign as Marseille’s sporting director on Tuesday following the departure of head coach Roberto De Zerbi, but his offer was swiftly rejected by club owner Frank McCourt and president Pablo Longoria.
The move underlined Benatia’s solidarity with De Zerbi and his concern over the club’s recent struggles, but leadership made it clear they want him to remain in charge of the sporting department.
Benatia, who joined OM to be part of a three-year project, stressed that De Zerbi should not bear the burden of the club’s difficulties alone.
In discussions with McCourt and Longoria, he emphasized his readiness to assume responsibility for the team’s performance and discipline, signaling a willingness to step down if he felt the club’s structure did not support ambitious goals.
On Wednesday, Benatia and Longoria addressed the squad during training. Speaking, Benatia told players that he had offered to leave and suggested they should reflect on their own contributions to the club’s challenges.
“The coach is gone; he has accepted responsibility. I am ready to do the same, though I will remain in Marseille because I love this city and this club,” he said.
He also challenged players over adherence to club rules, adding, “If the rules are too strict, I can leave and let you be. Otherwise, we turn the page and move forward together.”
Despite the tense atmosphere, several team leaders approached Benatia to offer support. While De Zerbi did not return to training, the seven dismissed assistants collected their belongings quietly.
Players such as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Igor Paixão, Nayef Aguerd, and Amine Gouiri posted messages of respect for De Zerbi, highlighting solidarity in the squad.
