De Zerbi Faces Critical Juncture Amidst Recent Setbacks

In light of the latest setback, Roberto De Zerbi’s position as head coach of Marseille has come under significant scrutiny. Despite speculation prior to the match regarding his potential resignation or dismissal, De Zerbi was present in the dugout as his team initially dominated the first hour of play.

Marseille seemed to be in control after Greenwood converted a penalty in the 19th minute, marking his 13th goal of the season, followed by an assist for Aubameyang, who scored in the 54th minute. However, the team’s late-game vulnerabilities, which have plagued them recently, resurfaced. Jonathan Ikone reduced the deficit with a header in the 82nd minute, and goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli conceded a stoppage-time penalty, which Ilan Kebbal converted in the 94th minute. This result leaves Marseille in third place in Ligue 1, seven points adrift of leaders Lens. For De Zerbi, who expressed his determination to remain despite the club’s struggles in critical moments, this collapse heightens concerns regarding his defensive strategies and the viability of his long-term project.

Addressing the media post-match, De Zerbi remarked, “We need to understand that what we’ve done at present is not good enough. Don’t worry about me; I’m always ready to go to war, whether it’s tomorrow or today. I started from the bottom, learned the ropes, and I know how to handle this. It frustrates me because I know we can do better. I don’t necessarily share all my thoughts publicly, not out of disrespect, but because the press conference isn’t the appropriate venue for it. I communicate openly in the locker room and during meetings.”

De Zerbi’s tenure at Marseille has reached a critical point following a disappointing exit from the Champions League, where a 3-0 defeat to Club Brugge left the team in a precarious position within the league phase. Reports indicate that he had offered his resignation post-match, with sporting director Medhi Benatia describing the performance as a “professional foul,” which further fueled speculation regarding De Zerbi’s future.

Despite the resignation offer, he has since affirmed that he possesses the “strength to stay” for several more seasons following discussions with club president Pablo Longoria. Although the board has publicly supported him, internal friction—particularly regarding the inconsistent performances of key players—indicates that his long-term future remains uncertain. This is not the first instance where De Zerbi has hinted at resignation as a challenge to his squad; in November 2024, he notably stated, “If the problem is me, I am ready to leave” after a loss to Auxerre.

As De Zerbi prepares for what could be a pivotal week, with European ambitions now extinguished, domestic silverware represents his only avenue for immediate redemption. His side is set to face Stade Rennais in a crucial French Cup round of 16 match, followed by a daunting derby clash with Paris Saint-Germain at Parc des Princes. A heavy defeat in this rival match could render De Zerbi’s position untenable, leaving him with little margin for error.