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Rabat – Moroccan former international Mehdi Benatia announced on Sunday that he has officially stepped down from his role as sporting director of Olympique Marseille, citing growing tensions within the club.
In a statement shared on his social media accounts, Benatia explained his decision: “Since arriving at the club, I have always acted with my heart and had only one goal – to bring Marseille back to the level it deserves. I know this club, I know what it requires, and I know the passion that defines it.”
He continued: “You know my honesty and transparency. Given the tensions around the management, I have submitted my resignation – not just a suggestion, but a real decision. The club will always be bigger than any individual, and I do not want my presence to become an obstacle or a burden for its organization and development.”
Benatia added that the choice came after careful thought: “For this reason, and after long reflection, I took responsibility and decided, on Monday, February 9, to end my collaboration with Marseille. I leave with the feeling that I gave everything professionally. Still, unfortunately, I could not calm the environment around the team, which I believe has great potential to achieve its goals.”
He closed his message with an appeal to supporters: “Stay behind them and encourage them as you always have.”
Mehdi Benatia’s tenure at Marseille
Mehdi Benatia’s return to Marseille was seen as both symbolic and strategic. Having started his playing career in the club’s youth system, he came back in November 2023 as a sporting adviser, working closely with president Pablo Longoria.
By January 2025, he was promoted to Director of Football, taking charge of recruitment and the wider sporting project.
During his time in the front office, Marseille tried to rebuild a competitive squad despite financial limits, aiming for regular Champions League qualification.
In a 2025 interview, Benatia outlined a plan to combine experienced players with younger profiles.
He defended the summer rebuild after several high‑profile departures, insisting the team had been strengthened in key areas.
But the final months were turbulent. Reports pointed to tension between Benatia and parts of the dressing room, including a public clash with captain Leonardo Balerdi. Earlier in his tenure, the club also had to respond to disciplinary issues involving him.
His resignation comes amid a wider crisis at Marseille. Just days before, the club parted ways with head coach Roberto De Zerbi following poor results, including a heavy 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint‑Germain. With both the sporting director and coach gone, Marseille is once again searching for stability in Ligue 1.
