OM: Medhi Benatia resigns (official)

Sporting director of the Phocaeans until this Sunday, Medhi Benatia has officially resigned.

Amid the recent crisis at OM, football director Medhi Benatia officially resigned this Sunday. In a statement, the Moroccan made his decision public.

"Supporters, Marseillais, since I arrived at the club, I have always acted with heart and a single obsession: to restore Olympique de Marseille to the place it deserves. I know this club, I know what it demands and the passion that drives it. Today, we're still in the race. The goal of qualifying for the Champions League is clearly within our reach and we're still in contention to bring the Coupe de France home. Despite recent setbacks and some cruel scenarios, from a sporting standpoint, the project is moving forward, but I cannot ignore the current climate. I feel a growing dissatisfaction, a rift that I deeply regret. In Marseille, results are the only true judge. You know my honesty and transparency; so, given the tensions surrounding management, I have indeed handed in (and not just offered) my resignation, because in my view, the club will always come before individuals and I do not want my presence to become an obstacle or a burden to the organization and its development. That's why, after long reflection, I took responsibility and decided, on Monday, February 9, to end my collaboration with OM. I leave with the feeling that I gave my all professionally, but with the regret of not having managed to calm the environment around the squad, which I believe has more than enough quality to meet the targets set. Stay behind them, support them as only you can! I wish the players and the staff every success for the end of the season. Marseille is and will always be special: 'Allez l'OM'. Of course, I will take the time to explain my choice when the time is right.", he wrote.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.