Olympique de Marseille has been plunged into fresh turmoil following the shock resignation of Sporting Director Medhi Benatia. The departure comes amid explosive reports of a total breakdown in communication with former Manchester United star Mason Greenwood.
The French giants are weathering a perfect storm. Following the recent exit of manager Roberto De Zerbi after a humiliating 5-0 defeat to PSG, Benatia’s departure signals a period of intense instability at the Vélodrome.
The Greenwood Feud: Silence and Criticism
While De Zerbi was a vocal defender of Greenwood following his 2024 move from Old Trafford, the relationship between the English forward and Benatia was reportedly “toxic.”
According to L’Equipe, the pair had reached a point where they deliberately ignored one another at the training ground. Benatia, the former Bayern Munich and Juventus defender, was understood to be frustrated by Greenwood’s attitude, particularly regarding his “disregard for commercial obligations” and his conduct off the field.
Benatia’s Statement: “The Club Comes First”
In a candid parting statement, Benatia admitted that the current climate at the club had become untenable.
“I cannot ignore the current climate. I sense a growing dissatisfaction and a breakdown in communication,” Benatia stated. “I have submitted my resignation because the club will always come before individuals. I do not want my presence to become an obstacle or a burden.”
Despite the internal friction, Benatia leaves Marseille with the club still in contention for Champions League qualification and the Coupe de France, though the “cruel twists of fate” on and off the pitch proved too much to overcome.
De Zerbi Back on the Market: A Warning to United and Spurs?
The fallout in Marseille has major implications for the Premier League. Roberto De Zerbi is now officially a free agent, and his availability comes at a fascinating time for Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, both of whom are reportedly monitoring elite coaching options.
De Zerbi, who was heavily linked with the Old Trafford hot seat before Erik ten Hag’s brief 2024 reprieve, is widely considered one of the most innovative tacticians in the game. With Marseille’s project stalling, a return to England for the Italian mastermind could be on the cards sooner than expected.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
