Reports indicate that Olympique de Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi has rejected an approach from Tottenham Hotspur, signaling his intention to remain with OM next season. Tottenham is reportedly moving forward with discussions to find a replacement for Ange Postecoglou, with Brentford manager Thomas Frank considered the leading candidate for the Premier League job.
Tottenham is said to have contacted De Zerbi recently. There were also reports linking him to the Inter Milan job, but both the club and De Zerbi denied these rumours last week. De Zerbi himself affirmed his commitment, stating:
“I`m happy in Marseille and I haven`t received any calls from other clubs; I want to achieve good things there properly.”
Following a post-season meeting in the US with club president Pablo Longoria, sporting director Medhi Benatia, and owner Frank McCourt, De Zerbi confirmed his renewed commitment to Marseille. This comes as the club prepares for a return to Champions League football at the Vélodrome next season.
The coach, who previously managed Brighton and Sassuolo, signed a three-year deal with OM. In his first season in France, he successfully guided the team back to Europe`s top club competition. However, links to Serie A clubs, including AC Milan, had caused some concern among Marseille supporters.
During a press conference, De Zerbi commented on the past season:
“It`s been a tough season, we have to be objective about that. I`m grateful to Frank, Pablo, and Medhi. I don`t want to leave.”
He also discussed future planning, saying:
“We need to look at what to do for the future, plan it and see where we stand, and talk honestly. Things need to be said. I haven`t started talks with any club.”
These remarks followed Marseille`s 4-2 win over Rennes in their final game of the season.
