Former Brighton manager Roberto de Zerbi has been linked with a number of Premier League roles over the past few months, but is now a free agent after leaving Ligue 1 side Marseille.
De Zerbi left Marseille following the defeat to PSG at the weekend (Image: Getty Images)
Roberto de Zerbi has left Marseille following the 5-0 defeat against Paris Saint-Germain. The Italian was reportedly close to leaving the club last month, reportedly handing in his resignation just days before the transfer window closed.
But De Zerbi has now effectively retired, with his final game coming up in the form of a heavy blow at the hands of the Ligue 1 champions on Sunday.
Marseille released a statement on Wednesday, saying: “Olympique de Marseille and first team coach Roberto de Zerbi announce the end of their cooperation by mutual agreement. After discussions involving all stakeholders in the club’s management, including the owner, the president, the director of football and the coach, it was decided to opt for a replacement in the first team’s leadership.”
“This was a difficult collective decision taken after careful consideration and in the best interests of the club to address the sporting challenges of the end of the season.
“Olympique Marseille would like to thank Roberto de Zerbi for his investment, dedication, professionalism and seriousness, especially for the second place he achieved in the 2024/25 season. The club wishes him every success for the rest of his career.”
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De Zerbi was appointed by Marseille in 2024 after an impressive spell with Brighton. He left the club fourth in Ligue 1, already 12 points behind leaders PSG.
The Italian’s departure comes amidst links with a number of Premier League clubs. The pressure on Thomas Frank continues to mount as he remains consistently involved in his role at Tottenham Hotspur.
Former Manchester United star Jaap Stam also suggested he would be ideal for the Red Devils’ next appointment. He recently said: “I like De Zerbi very much because of his performance at Brighton and now at Marseille.
Jaap Stam hints at De Zerbi as an option for Manchester United (Image: Getty Images)
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“How he plays in the team is that he plays possession-based football, so he’s very good with the ball. He also puts players in certain positions and makes it very difficult for the opponent to press.”
“As you know, he goes forward, he attacks, he scores a lot of goals and sometimes he concedes, but as a manager you know that.
“But I think he’s also a good manager. I think he’s also good with his players, giving them confidence and giving them the attention they need. Not just the starting lineup, but other players in the team.”
“And that’s what you need at such a big club. So if they don’t get Carrick and get him, I’ll be very happy.”
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