Ligue 1: Marseille part ways with head coach De Zerbi

Roberto De Zerbi has left Marseille by mutual consent after a difficult spell marked by heavy defeats and mounting pressure over the club’s direction.

The Italian coach exits with the Ligue 1 side sitting fourth in the table, 12 points behind leaders Paris St-Germain. His departure follows a 5-0 loss to PSG and a 3-0 defeat at Club Brugge that sealed Marseille’s elimination from the Champions League.

Club confirm mutual decision

Marseille confirmed the decision in an official statement, stressing that the move followed internal discussions among senior figures.

“Olympique de Marseille and Roberto De Zerbi, coach of the first team, have announced the end of their collaboration by mutual agreement,” the club said.

“Following discussions between all stakeholders in the club’s management – the owner, president, director of football, and coach – it was decided to make a change at the helm of the first team.

“This was a difficult collective decision, taken after careful consideration in the best interests of the club, in order to respond to the sporting challenges of the end of the season.”

Mixed tenure in France

De Zerbi was appointed in the summer of 2024 after leaving Brighton, where he spent nearly two years in charge.

He made an immediate impact in France, guiding Marseille to a second-place finish in Ligue 1 last season and securing Champions League qualification.

However, expectations increased this term. Despite remaining in the top four domestically, inconsistent performances and European disappointment raised concerns over the team’s trajectory.

Marseille now face a crucial period as they aim to protect their league position and salvage their season. An interim solution is expected in the short term while the club evaluates long-term options ahead of the next campaign.