Olympique de Marseille’s sporting director Mehdi Benatia offered his resignation following the departure of coach Roberto De Zerbi, amid a difficult period marked by a dip in Ligue 1 form and elimination from the Champions League.
According to RMC Sport, Benatia submitted his resignation in solidarity with De Zerbi, arguing that responsibility for the club’s struggles could not rest on one individual. However, the club’s management promptly rejected his offer.
In response, Benatia addressed the players in the locker room, acknowledging his share of responsibility and urging the squad to fully commit to addressing the challenges facing the team.
“The coach is no longer here, he took responsibility. I am also ready to take responsibility and leave the club, even though I will stay in Marseille because I love this city and I love this club,” Benatia said.
He added: “If the rules are too harsh, I can leave and I’ll leave you alone. Just say so. Otherwise, we’ll turn the page and move forward together.”
Benatia, a former Moroccan international, emphasised unity and collective effort as the team navigates the remainder of the season.
While his resignation was not accepted, he remains in his role, continuing to oversee sporting matters at Marseille.
The episode highlights the internal pressures at Marseille as the club struggles to regain momentum both domestically and in Europe.
Benatia’s willingness to step down reflects the accountability expected of senior figures, even as the club seeks to stabilise ahead of the crucial final months of the campaign.
For now, Benatia’s message is clear: the focus must be on collective responsibility and solidarity, with the club and its players moving forward together despite recent setbacks.
