Roberto De Zerbi spent close to two seasons at Brighton & Hove Albion before leaving them at the end of last season.
The Italian reportedly received multiple approaches before he accepted the Marseille job in the summer. They are third in the Ligue 1 table, trailing leaders Paris Saint-Germain by nine points.
Last weekend, Marseille suffered a 3-1 defeat to AJ Auxerre at home. The former Brighton manager was clearly not satisfied with his side’s performance and made this clear to the media. De Zerbi also offered to leave, if he’s the problem at the French club.
Marseille sporting director Medhi Benatia has responded to De Zerbi’s outburst during an interview with RMC Sport, relayed by Le Figaro Sport. The Moroccan has played down any suggestions of the manager leaving the club.
“He’s the man for the job, there’s no discussion. The confidence we have in him, I don’t even need to talk about it,” he said.
The Ligue 1 side official went to explain what it’s like to work with De Zerbi, something that Brighton have already experienced from his time at The Amex.
“He told me: ‘If I’m the problem, don’t hesitate. I don’t need money. When it comes to responsibility, he’s taken it. Roberto is excessive, compulsive and hot-headed. He’s a golden boy, he lives for football,” Benatia explained.
The Marseille chief insists the ex-Seagulls coach fits well with the club and the city.
“He chose OM. When you know the character, you know he fits this city. It’s love, football, passion. [He calls me] sometimes at 11 pm, he tells me that he’s still in the office and that he’s going to sleep at the Commanderie [Marseille training centre],” he added.
