Olympique de Marseille is navigating a period of significant instability with the resignation of sporting director Medhi Benatia on Sunday, February 15th. This follows the recent departure of head coach Roberto De Zerbi earlier this week.

Benatia announced his decision via social media, stating, You know my frankness and my transparency; given the tensions around the management, I have actually submitted (and not proposed) my resignation, since in my opinion the club will always come before the men and I do not want my presence to become an obstacle or a burden for the organization and development.

Recent Departures and Mounting Pressure

Benatia’s decision came on February 9th, the day after a heavy 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. He had been appointed director of football in January 2025, after initially serving as a sports advisor since November 2023.

The club has faced turbulence this season, including elimination from the Champions League and a recent 2-2 draw against RC Strasbourg Alsace that was met with fan protests at the Stade-Vélodrome.

“In Marseille, it’s difficult to plan,” Benatia confided after the Champions Trophy defeat. Once again, I speak for myself. For my part, I am not planning at all, quite the contrary. (…) In a short time, you will see that there will be other people in our place, we will still have to give them time to work.” Source: Le Monde

Looking Ahead: Managerial Search

With both the manager and sporting director positions now vacant, OM is actively searching for replacements. Former Stade Rennais manager Habib Beye is currently considered the frontrunner for the managerial role.

The departure of Benatia leaves president Pablo Longoria as the sole remaining member of the core leadership trio.