Softfootball confirms that Mehdi Benatia has resigned with immediate effect as director of football at Olympique de Marseille, citing misalignment with recent club policies despite initially taking the role out of loyalty.
The development was reported by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano via his official X account, who revealed that Benatia no longer felt aligned with the club’s direction.
He stated that:
Mehdi Benatia has just resigned as Olympique Marseille director, leaving the club with immediate effect. Benatia was no longer aligned with club policy in recent times; accepted OM job for his relationship with the club but never wanted to be a problem; now leaving.
The retired Moroccan defender, who previously featured for FC Bayern Munich and Juventus F.C., had stepped into the executive position during a turbulent period for the French side.
His appointment came amid instability following the departure of head coach Roberto De Zerbi on February 11, 2026, whose exit reportedly followed a heavy 5–0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain F.C., a result that left Marseille mid-table and intensified scrutiny.
Although Benatia had earlier offered to resign, the club rejected it at the time. His resignation has now been accepted, marking another shift in leadership at the club.
Elsewhere, Liverpool F.C. secured a 3–0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion F.C., with Dominik Szoboszlai delivering another standout performance.
