Roberto De Zerbi has left Marseille by mutual agreement following a humiliating 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. The club announced the decision on Wednesday, citing the need for change after the heavy loss at the Parc des Princes on Sunday.
The defeat restored PSG’s two-point lead over Lens after 21 rounds, leaving Marseille in fourth place. De Zerbi’s side also suffered a 3-0 loss at Club Brugge two weeks ago, which knocked them out of the Champions League.
De Zerbi, who had apologised to Marseille fans after the defeat against bitter rivals PSG, joined the club in 2024 after two seasons at Brighton. Although he tightened tactics in his first season, recent choices had puzzled observers.
Marseille said in a statement: “Following consultations involving all stakeholders… it was decided to opt for a change at the head of the first team. This was a collective and difficult decision, taken after thorough consideration, in the best interests of the club.”
De Zerbi led Marseille to second place last season. The club has not yet announced a replacement ahead of Saturday’s league match against Strasbourg. Since American owner Frank McCourt bought the club in 2016, Marseille has struggled for stability, with a series of coaches and occasional violent crises.
