News Focus
- Mehdi Benatia recently stepped down as sporting director at Olympique de Marseille
- The former defender appeared on Aurélien Tchouaméni’s talk show ‘The Bridge’
- He refused to dismiss a future role at rival club Paris Saint-Germain
- Benatia insists he “does not owe anything” to his former employers
- The 39-year-old suggested a move could happen in three to five years
Mehdi Benatia has caused a stir just weeks after leaving his job at Olympique de Marseille. The 39-year-old has hinted he could cross the French football divide to join bitter rivals Paris Saint-Germain.
The former Morocco international made the startling admission during an appearance on ‘The Bridge’. This is a talk show hosted by Real Madrid star Aurélien Tchouaméni. He appeared alongside Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba and French rapper Soprano. During the show, Benatia addressed speculation about a future switch to the Parc des Princes.
Rather than closing the door, the ex-defender embraced the idea openly. He revealed he maintains a strong bond with PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaïfi. However, Benatia stressed he needs immediate rest after his time at Marseille ended.
“If, down the line, Nasser needs me – not now, as I must rest first – but in three, four or five years, and the project excites me, then why not?” he explained. “I do not owe anything to anybody. I refuse to say ‘no’ simply because people expect loyalty.”
These comments risk angering Marseille supporters. The club views PSG as their fiercest enemies. Benatia’s words strike at the heart of that rivalry. Born in the Paris region, he came through Marseille’s youth academy. Yet he never played a senior match for them. Loan spells at other clubs came before his permanent transfer to Clermont Foot.
Now, the prospect of him joining the capital club threatens to damage his relationship with the Stade Vélodrome faithful.