News Focus
- Medhi Benatia will leave Olympique de Marseille when the current season ends
- Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad has shown strong interest in hiring him
- The Moroccan initially quit in February but returned to finish the campaign
- Grégory Lorenzi is set to replace Benatia at the French club
- Benatia is open to taking a sporting director role in Saudi Arabia
Medhi Benatia is preparing to exit Olympique de Marseille. The club’s American owner, Frank McCourt, has confirmed that the Moroccan will leave when the Ligue 1 campaign concludes.
The former defender first departed the club in February. He left at the same time as manager Roberto De Zerbi. Both men originally left by mutual consent. However, officials convinced Benatia to return. He came back to help the team complete the season.
Now Benatia wants a fresh challenge. Saudi Pro League giants Al-Ittihad have approached him. Famous transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed this interest. French media outlet RMC Sport reports that Benatia is receptive to the proposal. He favours a move to the Middle East.
Al-Ittihad wants Benatia to become their new sporting director. He would replace Ramon Planes if the Spaniard leaves his post. RMC Sport claims Benatia is the leading candidate for this position.
Marseille has already identified a successor. Grégory Lorenzi will join from Stade Brestois. He will take over as sporting director after the season finishes.