Roberto De Zerbi Parts Ways with Marseille After Heavy Defeat

Bornheimer – Roberto De Zerbi has officially left his position as head coach of Olympique Marseille following a 5-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain over the weekend. This decision comes amid mounting pressure due to the team’s underperformance this season.

A Difficult Season Leads to De Zerbi’s Departure

De Zerbi guided Marseille to a second-place finish in Ligue 1 last season, but the team has struggled this year. Currently in fourth place, Marseille is now 12 points behind PSG. The club has also been eliminated from the Champions League, which added extra pressure on both the players and the coach.

A Collective Decision to Make a Change

De Zerbi’s departure followed a series of discussions between the club’s owner, president, sporting director, and the coach. All parties agreed that a change in leadership was necessary for the remainder of the season.

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Official Club Statement

In a statement, Marseille thanked De Zerbi for his dedication, professionalism, and commitment. The club acknowledged that the decision was difficult but ultimately made in the best interest of the team.

“After discussions with all stakeholders—owner, president, sporting director, and coach—we decided to make a change in the team’s leadership,” the statement read.

“This collective decision followed careful consideration of what’s best for the club as we face the challenges ahead.”

“Olympique de Marseille expresses gratitude to Roberto De Zerbi for his dedication, professionalism, and commitment, which contributed to the team’s achievement as runners-up in the 2024-25 season.”

“We wish him the best in his future endeavors.”

Strained Relationship with the Squad

Reports suggest that tensions had risen between De Zerbi and the squad. On Tuesday, president Pablo Longoria, sporting director Mehdi Benatia, and De Zerbi addressed the players, confirming that the relationship between the coach and his team had become strained, according to ESPN sources.

There is also speculation about De Zerbi’s future, with rumors linking him to a potential move to Tottenham Hotspur if the club parts ways with Thomas Frank. Despite his exit from Marseille, De Zerbi’s reputation remains strong, and he is likely to have no shortage of opportunities across Europe.