Roberto De Zerbi has asked to leave Olympique de Marseille following the club’s elimination from the Champions League.
The Italian requested his release after Wednesday night’s heavy defeat to Club Brugge.
Marseille were beaten 3-0 in Belgium in the final round of the league phase, a result that confirmed their exit from the competition at the first hurdle.
The defeat has triggered serious internal discussions at the club, with De Zerbi now driving the process rather than awaiting a board decision.
Talks are ongoing between Marseille’s hierarchy and De Zerbi to determine the terms of his departure.
De Zerbi did not oversee training on Thursday as Marseille prepared for their upcoming Ligue 1 fixture, adding weight to speculation over his future.
The 46-year-old cut a dejected figure after the defeat in Brugge. Marseille conceded twice inside the opening 11 minutes despite specific preparation for Brugge’s fast starts.
Senior figures at the club publicly backed the coach in the immediate aftermath, with sporting director Medhi Benatia placing responsibility on the squad.
Despite that support, De Zerbi is believed to feel that the working relationship can no longer continue.
Marseille currently sit third in Ligue 1, seven points behind leaders Paris Saint-Germain.
While their domestic position remains competitive, the Champions League exit has been viewed internally as a major setback.
De Zerbi joined Marseille after leaving Brighton & Hove Albion in 2024.
His appointment was seen as a statement of ambition, with the club committing to an expansive, high-risk playing style.
Across all competitions this season, he has overseen 17 wins, two draws and 11 defeats. The inconsistency that has defined Marseille’s campaign has increasingly frustrated De Zerbi.
In recent weeks, De Zerbi has publicly criticised media scrutiny and expressed confusion at his side’s fluctuating performances.
An exit could quickly reopen opportunities elsewhere for De Zerbi.
A return to Serie A or the Premier League could be on the cards, given his previous work in Italy and England.
