Roberto De Zerbi Leaves Marseille by Mutual Consent, Tottenham and Arsenal Watch On

Roberto De Zerbi has departed Olympique de Marseille by mutual consent, following a challenging period for the club that included elimination from the Champions League and a significant defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. The move comes as Tottenham Hotspur recently sacked Thomas Frank, potentially opening a managerial vacancy, while Arsenal is monitoring the situation of Ethan Nwaneri, a player on loan from the Gunners.

De Zerbi’s Departure and Marseille’s Reset

The Italian manager, who joined Marseille in July 2024 after his time at Brighton & Hove Albion, leaves the club sitting fourth in Ligue 1, twelve points behind league leaders Paris Saint-Germain . Marseille had prioritized recruiting players aligned with De Zerbi’s tactical vision during the last two transfer windows, but the club has decided a change was necessary to address the “sporting challenges of the complete of the season” . A joint statement from the club’s stakeholders – owner, president, director of football and coach – confirmed the decision was a “difficult collective decision, taken after careful consideration” .

Tottenham Managerial Vacancy and De Zerbi’s Potential

De Zerbi’s availability coincides with a managerial change at Tottenham Hotspur, who dismissed Thomas Frank after a 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United left them five points above the relegation zone . While Mauricio Pochettino is considered the favorite for the Tottenham job, his commitments with the USA national team ahead of a home World Cup may delay his availability until August . This creates an opportunity for De Zerbi to be considered for the role.

Arsenal Monitoring Ethan Nwaneri’s Situation

The departure of De Zerbi also impacts Arsenal loanee Ethan Nwaneri. Nwaneri’s playing time has decreased since the arrival of new manager Habib Bey, prompting Arsenal to closely monitor his situation . Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta had previously stated that the loan spell was intended to provide Nwaneri with experience in a different environment to prepare him for a return to the club , and Arteta acknowledged De Zerbi and the Marseille environment were factors in the decision. The British media suggests Nwaneri may soon return to Arsenal .

Marseille thanked De Zerbi for his “dedication, commitment, professionalism and seriousness” and wished him well in his future endeavors .