The Uncertain Future of Roberto De Zerbi at Marseille
Roberto De Zerbi finds himself in 'great danger' of being sacked as the head coach of Marseille following their dramatic exit from the Champions League. The pressure is mounting on the Italian tactician after a string of disappointing performances and results.
Roberto De Zerbi is in 'great danger' of being sacked after his Marseille side were dumped out of the Champions League in dramatic fashion. The French side looked to be limping through to the play-off stage of the competition despite losing 3-0 to Club Brugge on Wednesday night. But Benfica's last-gasp 4-2 win over Real Madrid ensured Jose Mourinho's side pipped Marseille to the last qualifying spot.Before Marseille were knocked out of this season's Champions League, head coach De Zerbi had come under fire for his poor record in the competition. Last November, former France international Jerome Rothen blasted the Italian, saying he "couldn't find the ingredients" to make Marseille tick.He said: "OM's results are ridiculous, that's the reality. They're struggling and in a group of teams that are currently eliminated and look more like Europa League teams than Champions League teams. Let's call a spade a spade. When you look at De Zerbi's record, it's 10 Champions League matches and one win. That sums it up. Tactically, he doesn't have the tools, he can't find the ingredients, and the skills to push OM to be better. He was outmaneuvered by Ivan Juric, the Atalanta coach. There was a casting error."Now that they are out of Europe's elite competition, the criticism is likely to be even fiercer after winning three and losing five of their eight league phase games.A week after a 3-0 loss at home to Liverpool in the Champions League, Marseille put in an abject display against Brugge, before Benfica's chaotic win over Madrid ensured they went through on goal difference. Of all those left disappointed on Wednesday night, Marseille may have been the most crestfallen of all. After the contest, De Zerbi admitted this was a "very bad day" for his side.The former Brighton head coach said: "We started the match very badly, we knew they would come out very strong, but we conceded two goals. After that, we attacked, but it didn’t work. Even in the second half, we knew Forbs’ speed was superior to Medina’s. And we didn’t manage to score, neither in the first half nor in the second. We could have been more attentive without exposing ourselves so much. We have to ask for forgiveness because this is a very bad day."Marseille's sporting director, Medhi Benatia, was livid at Les Olympiens' defeat but seemed to direct his ire towards the players rather than De Zerbi.He added: "I hope that the players are aware that tonight is a professional foul. I've lost games in my career, I've rarely felt that sense of shame, being able to concede six goals in two games. I want it to have consequences on the rest of the season."According to RMC Sport, De Zerbi's place at Marseille is in 'great danger'. They add that talks are underway between all parties over a possible departure, with the Brugge loss 'greatly weakening' his status at the Ligue 1 outfit. The former Sassuolo boss could leave Marseille quickly, with his future 'hanging by a thread'. It remains to be seen if the 46-year-old, who joined the south coast team in 2024 on a three-year deal, will still be in charge for their clash against Paris FC this weekend in the league. Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingIf De Zerbi is kept on at Marseille, their game away at Paris FC is likely to be a must-win one. They sit third in Ligue 1, five points behind second-placed Lens and seven adrift of leaders Paris Saint-Germain. Just over a week ago, De Zerbi was being linked with the Manchester United job. While he said his focus was on the French club, and he felt "very happy" in his post, De Zerbi may not be around there for much longer. Ergo, United may not want him in the summer.
De Zerbi's Struggles in the Champions League
Marseille's Champions League campaign has been marred by inconsistency and underwhelming displays under De Zerbi's guidance. Criticism from former players and pundits has highlighted the team's lackluster performances in Europe's premier competition.
The Defeat to Club Brugge and Subsequent Elimination
Despite losing 3-0 to Club Brugge, Marseille seemed on course to progress to the play-off stage until Benfica's dramatic win over Real Madrid denied them qualification. De Zerbi's team's lack of clinical finishing and defensive vulnerabilities were exposed in the crucial matches.
Marseille's Ligue 1 Position and De Zerbi's Job Security
Sitting third in Ligue 1, Marseille are facing pressure not only in Europe but also domestically. With talks of De Zerbi's potential departure intensifying, the upcoming clash against Paris FC could be make-or-break for the coach's future at the club.
The Fallout and Criticism
Following the disappointing results in recent matches, including a heavy defeat to Brugge, emotions are running high at Marseille. De Zerbi acknowledges the poor performances and takes responsibility for the team's failures, but questions remain about his tactical acumen and ability to lead the team to success.
Speculation and Uncertainty
With reports indicating that De Zerbi's position at Marseille is 'greatly weakened' and talks of a possible departure on the horizon, the future looks uncertain for the former Sassuolo boss. The imminent clash against Paris FC could determine whether De Zerbi stays or faces the axe.







