De Zerbi in Great Danger as Marseille Crash Out of Champions League

Roberto De Zerbi in great danger finds himself at the center of mounting uncertainty after Marseille’s dramatic Champions League exit. The former Brighton manager faces intense scrutiny and potential dismissal, as the French club’s European campaign ended in heartbreak and disappointment.

De Zerbi in Great Danger: Marseille’s Champions League Collapse

Marseille entered their final group fixture needing only a modest result to advance to the play-off stage. However, a 3-0 defeat to Club Brugge laid bare the team’s vulnerabilities. The real blow came not just from their own failure, but from Benfica’s stunning 4-2 victory over Real Madrid, which ultimately eliminated Marseille on goal difference. The result sent shockwaves through the club and left De Zerbi’s managerial future hanging by a thread.

Growing Criticism of De Zerbi’s European Record

Before the devastating elimination, De Zerbi’s Champions League credentials had already drawn criticism from pundits and former players. French football analyst Jerome Rothen was particularly vocal, highlighting De Zerbi’s record of just one win in ten Champions League outings. Rothen argued that the Italian manager “couldn’t find the ingredients” to make Marseille competitive on Europe’s biggest stage, and even suggested a tactical mismatch against rivals like Atalanta’s Ivan Juric.

De Zerbi’s Response and Club’s Reaction

De Zerbi, speaking after the Brugge defeat, openly admitted the side’s shortcomings. “We started the match very badly, conceding two early goals. Despite trying to attack, we never managed to find the net. This is a very bad day and we have to ask for forgiveness,” he confessed. The coach’s honesty did little to appease fans or the club hierarchy, who expected a stronger performance on such a crucial night.

Sporting director Medhi Benatia did not hide his frustration either, though he primarily blamed the players for their lack of commitment and professionalism. “Tonight is a professional foul. I hope the players understand the shame of conceding six goals in two games,” Benatia stated, hinting at possible consequences for the remainder of the season.

De Zerbi’s Future at Marseille: ‘Hanging by a Thread’

According to reports from RMC Sport, De Zerbi’s tenure at Marseille is in “great danger.” After the damaging defeat in Belgium, discussions are reportedly underway regarding his immediate future. The Italian, who joined the club in 2024 on a three-year contract, may not survive to manage Marseille’s next Ligue 1 fixture against Paris FC. The uncertainty has only intensified speculation, with De Zerbi previously linked to high-profile jobs like Manchester United, though his current form may have cooled that interest.

What Lies Ahead for Marseille?

If De Zerbi remains in charge, Marseille’s upcoming league match against Paris FC becomes a must-win to restore confidence and keep the club in the Ligue 1 title race. Currently sitting third, OM trail leaders PSG by seven points and are five shy of second-placed Lens. After such a high-profile European failure, league form will be crucial both for De Zerbi’s job and for the club’s ambitions this season.

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Opinion: Should Marseille Stand by De Zerbi?

In my view, while De Zerbi’s European results have been underwhelming, sacking him mid-season could destabilize Marseille further. The club’s domestic position remains strong, and continuity might offer the best chance to regroup and chase Ligue 1 success. However, swift improvement is non-negotiable—both fans and management demand results, and patience is wearing thin.