Roberto De Zerbi's Tumultuous Tenure at Marseille Ends After Champions League Exit

Roberto De Zerbi's coaching journey at Olympique de Marseille concluded in February 2026 amid growing internal challenges and disappointing results in European competition. Arriving in July 2024 with ambitions for a long-term revival, De Zerbi envisioned restoring Marseille's stature in French football by building a squad that blended youth opportunities with competitive success. His tenure featured moments of both promise and tension.

Early on, De Zerbi implemented unconventional measures aimed at strengthening team cohesion, such as a "commando" training camp and overnight stays at the training center following poor performances. By April 2025, a retreat in Rome helped refocus the team, leading Marseille to finish second in Ligue 1 and secure qualification for the Champions League.

Despite these successes, fractures appeared within the squad, most notably between players Adrien Rabiot and Jonathan Rowe, resulting in disciplinary actions. The team did celebrate significant milestones under De Zerbi, including a historic victory over PSG, their first in 14 years, showcasing flashes of the potential the coach promised.

However, mounting pressures became evident by November 2024 after a 1-3 home defeat to Auxerre. De Zerbi openly acknowledged his precarious position, stating, "If I am the problem, I am ready to leave. I will give up the money and return my contract," underscoring his willingness to resign if deemed responsible for the team's struggles.

Ultimately, De Zerbi's exit followed Marseille's elimination from the Champions League, marking an abrupt end to a tenure that was both entertaining and controversial. His time at OM will be remembered for its ambitious starts, team-building innovations, headline-grabbing clashes, and a mixed legacy that leaves questions about the future direction of the club's coaching strategy.