Medhi Benatia to Remain at Marseille Until Season End Following Resignation U-Turn
MARSEILLE, 17 February 2026 – In a dramatic turn of events at the Orange Vélodrome, Olympique de Marseille owner Frank McCourt has confirmed that Sporting Director Medhi Benatia will remain in his post until the end of the current campaign, despite tendering his resignation earlier this week.
Crisis Management at the Vélodrome
The French giants have been plunged into administrative turmoil following a series of high-profile departures. Benatia, the former Juventus and Bayern Munich defender, initially announced his resignation on Sunday 15 February 2026. His decision followed the exit of head coach Roberto De Zerbi just five days prior, leaving the club’s sporting project in a state of flux.
Reports from within the club suggested that Benatia’s desire to leave was fuelled by internal friction, including a rumoured breakdown in relations with forward Mason Greenwood and frustrations over the club’s long-term recruitment strategy. However, in an official statement released this Tuesday, Frank McCourt clarified that Benatia would retain full authority over sporting activities to ensure stability during the final months of the season.
The Nwaneri and Pogba Context
The leadership vacuum comes at a sensitive time for Marseille. The club recently secured the services of Arsenal starlet Ethan Nwaneri on a loan deal during the January transfer window. The ongoing instability had raised concerns regarding the integration of new arrivals and the pursuit of further targets.
Before the current crisis, Benatia had been vocal about the club’s ambitions, even hinting at an interest in Paul Pogba. With Benatia now confirmed to stay until June, the focus shifts to whether he can salvage the season and provide a platform for a new permanent coaching appointment, with former Rennes coach Habib Beye previously linked to the vacancy.
Medhi Benatia: Career Profile
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Medhi Amine El Mouttaqi Benatia |
| Date of Birth | 17 April 1987 |
| Current Role | Sporting Director (Olympique de Marseille) |
| Contract Expiry | 30 June 2027 (Original Term) |
| Major Former Clubs | Udinese, Roma, Bayern Munich, Juventus |
| International Honours | Morocco National Team (Former Captain) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Medhi Benatia try to resign?
Benatia reportedly offered his resignation following the departure of manager Roberto De Zerbi and amid reports of internal disagreements regarding the club’s direction and player management, specifically involving Mason Greenwood.
Is Medhi Benatia still the Sporting Director of Marseille?
Yes. Although he submitted his resignation on 9 February 2026, club owner Frank McCourt refused the request and confirmed on 17 February 2026 that Benatia will remain in charge of sporting operations until the end of the season.
Who is currently coaching Marseille?
Following Roberto De Zerbi’s recent departure, the club is currently in a transition phase. While Habib Beye was considered a candidate, the sporting department under Benatia is tasked with stabilising the first team for the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign.