It was more than an open secret since the revelation of this information on February 28 in our columns. Frank McCourt confirmed to JDD a month later the obvious: he is indeed looking for new investors for OM.
“I think it’s time to start this process because I really want Marseille to step up,” he said. “I am very proud of what we have accomplished and the respect we have gained in the world of football. The next level, and hopefully the highest level, will require additional investments. We want to find the right strategic partner to achieve this. It’s still too early to say more, we are reflecting, organizing, but we are in this state of mind.”
Benatia will indeed leave OM at the end of the season
For about four years now, representatives of Frank McCourt have been looking for investors who could enter the capital. The amount requested (several hundred million dollars) did not allow potential partners to have a role in the operational command of the club, which logically stalled negotiations.
The Bostonian, who valued OM at 1.2 billion, will be a little less strict in the coming weeks in his search, which he has just made official. He also confirmed to JDD that Medhi Benatia will leave his position at the end of the season.
“After receiving his resignation, I personally asked him to extend his notice period and I thank him for agreeing because it was essential to finish the season. Medhi is an excellent sports director. He will stay until the end of the season and then it will be over. It is his wish and what we have agreed on.“
A future president who knows the Marseille context well?
OM is also actively looking for a new president, while Alban Juster holds the position to handle current affairs until further notice: “I prefer someone who knows France and Marseille well, because I think it is crucial to understand the club’s culture. The person must also be a large-scale, experienced manager. I hope we will have the opportunity to announce the new president before the end of the season.“
So the end of the season looks intense, with about half of the squad potentially leaving (a routine since the takeover by Pablo Longoria), a president and a sports director to recruit, as well as new investors who could quickly enter the capital.
Not to forget, of course, the field, and the almost vital goal of qualifying for the next Champions League. Habib Beye’s men are still 3rd, but after their defeat against Lille last Sunday, this position is hanging by a thread. The three-year project launched in 2024 by Frank McCourt, with the triumvirate of Longoria-Benatia-De Zerbi, is definitely obsolete.
