Report: Man United managerial target open to quitting current job

Roberto De Zerbi’s future at Marseille appears to be hanging by a thread following their Champions League exit.

Reports now suggest the Italian coach has asked to leave his post, putting him firmly back on the radar of clubs searching for a new manager, including Manchester United.

According to Yahoo Sports, De Zerbi has submitted his resignation at Marseille after the French side failed to reach the Champions League last 16. Despite having a contract at the Stade Vélodrome that runs until 2027, the deal could now be terminated more than a year early.

The decisive blow came with a heavy 3–0 defeat to Club Brugge, which left Marseille 25th in the league-phase table and outside the top 24 required to qualify for the knockout rounds.

That result effectively ended their European campaign and sparked serious internal discussions. A separate report claimed club officials were even considering sacking the former Brighton and Shakhtar Donetsk boss, underlining how quickly the situation deteriorated.

Although Marseille sit third in Ligue 1 and De Zerbi has guided the team to 12 league victories this season, the Champions League failure appears to have outweighed domestic progress in the club’s assessment of his tenure.

Further speculation was sparked when De Zerbi missed a training session at Clairefontaine ahead of a league match against Paris FC. His absence intensified rumours that his relationship with the club hierarchy had reached breaking point.

De Zerbi, who took charge in 2024, initially made a strong impression by reinforcing the squad with players such as former Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood and guiding Marseille back into European competition.

However, the 2025–26 season has been plagued by inconsistency, and the Champions League disappointment has proved a turning point.

With talks reportedly already held between all parties and a final decision expected soon, De Zerbi’s potential availability could have major implications across Europe.

For Manchester United, who have been linked with the Italian in the past, his situation at Marseille may reopen the door to a possible future approach.