Medhi Benatia Returns to Marseille After Brief Resignation

Unexpected Turn of Events

Marseille’s tumultuous season took another unexpected turn when sporting director Medhi Benatia rejoined the club just two days after announcing his resignation.

Benatia initially stepped down on Sunday, shortly following the exit of coach Roberto De Zerbi. However, in a statement from the club’s American owner Frank McCourt, it was revealed that Benatia has agreed to stay on until the end of the season to “oversee all sporting activities.”

Club Leadership Changes

In light of this development, club president Pablo Longoria will transition to a more administrative role, focusing on representing Marseille in French and European football organizations, as stated in the announcement circulated by various media outlets.

Recent Match Performance

Marseille drew 2-2 at home against Strasbourg on Saturday, despite having a two-goal lead, and currently sits in fourth place, trailing the league leaders, Lens, by 12 points. This match followed a disappointing 5-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain and an early exit from the Champions League after a 3-0 defeat against Club Brugge, prompting a strong backlash from fans.

Benatia has committed to remaining with Marseille until season’s end. (Xavier Laine/Getty Images)

Fan Discontent

Reports indicate that Benatia had shown loyalty to De Zerbi, who resigned shortly after the heavy defeat to PSG. During the recent match against Strasbourg, fans in both goal-side stands boycotted the game in protest. One banner directed at McCourt and Longoria demanded their exit, declaring, “all of your projects go up in smoke!”

Future Prospects

Marseille, a nine-time French champion, has not lifted a trophy since winning the now-defunct League Cup in 2012. The club’s main objective this season is to pursue the French Cup; they are set to face Toulouse in the quarterfinals next month.

Following these events, McCourt was scheduled to meet with Ultras group representatives later on Tuesday, amid speculation that Habib Beye would soon be appointed as the new head coach. Beye, who played for Marseille from 2003 to 2007, was recently dismissed from his position as coach at Rennes.

In the meantime, Marseille’s assistant coach Jacques Abardonado has taken on interim responsibilities following De Zerbi’s departure.