Medhi Benatia heading to a Saudi future? Set to leave Olympique de Marseille this summer, the 39-year-old Moroccan executive is attracting attention from Saudi Arabia. He resigned in February 2026 following internal tensions and a heavy defeat to PSG (0-5), but agreed to extend his notice period until the end of the season at the request of Frank McCourt, the OM owner. Confirmed by the American billionaire in an interview with JDD, this official departure will take place in the coming weeks, with Grégory Lorenzi tipped to succeed him as sporting director.
Arriving at OM in November 2023 as a sports advisor before being promoted to director of football in January 2025, Benatia leaves the Phocaean club after just 13 months in this key role. His farewell message on social media, posted on February 15, mentioned « tensions around the management » and a desire not to become « a burden to the organization. » This second major departure, after that of coach Roberto De Zerbi, marks a turbulent transition period for OM, which is struggling in Ligue 1.
Al-Ittihad in pole position. According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Al-Ittihad has approached Medhi Benatia to make him their new sporting director. The Saudi club, disappointing this season in the Saudi Pro League, is preparing an ambitious project following the imminent departure of Ramon Planes. Discussions have already begun, and the financial offer would be exceptional for the former Juventus and Bayern Munich captain, renowned for his ability to revive sports projects.
It remains to be seen whether Benatia, a restart specialist who came through OM’s youth academy, will opt for this lucrative adventure in Saudi Arabia or prioritize a European challenge. His name is already circulating in several leagues, but the call of the Gulf seems irresistible. A story to follow closely for Marseille fans and OM transfer market enthusiasts!