Striker discarded by MU stirs controversy, a top executive loses position

Marseille's sporting director, Medhi Benatia, stepped down amid rumors of a dispute with ex-Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood.

Benatia left the club as pressure mounted at the Ligue 1 side following a turbulent period, which included the departure of coach Roberto De Zerbi. De Zerbi departed after a 0-5 defeat to archrivals Paris Saint-Germain, with Marseille sitting fourth and also knocked out of the next round of the Champions League in a dramatic fashion.

Benatia, a former Morocco international who had an impressive playing career at Bayern Munich, AS Roma, and Juventus, confirmed his decision to leave amid ongoing troubles.

He stated in a declaration: “Since joining the club, I have always acted with all my heart and one goal: to restore Olympique de Marseille to its rightful status. I understand this club, its demands, and the passionate spirit here.

Today, we are still in the race. The objective of qualifying for the Champions League is well within reach, and we still have a chance to bring the Coupe de France home.

Despite recent setbacks and unfortunate events, the project is progressing on the pitch, but I cannot ignore the current atmosphere. I sense growing dissatisfaction and a breakdown in communication, which I deeply regret. At Marseille, results are the only measure.

You all know I am straightforward and transparent. Therefore, given the tensions surrounding the leadership, I have submitted my resignation because, in my view, the club must always come before individuals. I do not want my presence to become an obstacle or burden to the organization and the team's development.

I leave feeling I have done my utmost professionally but regret that I could not ease the atmosphere around the team, a group I fully believe is capable of achieving the set goals.”

Reports suggest Benatia had conflicts with GreenwoodThe English striker joined the French club in 2024 and quickly became a key player. Although De Zerbi openly supported Greenwood, the relationship between the player and Benatia reportedly deteriorated.

According to L’Equipe, the two even deliberately ignored each other. The 38-year-old director is said to have openly criticized Greenwood on and off the pitch. Additionally, Benatia was reportedly unhappy when Greenwood showed a lack of seriousness towards commercial duties last summer and disregarded the consequences of his actions.

Meanwhile, De Zerbi is currently among the free agents, at a notable time when both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are searching for permanent head coaches.

The Italian strategist was linked with the managerial position at Old Trafford and was reportedly on the shortlist after his successful spell with Brighton, before Manchester United appointed Erik ten Hag.