Roberto De Zerbi Breaks Silence on Explosive Man Utd Transfer Rumors
Roberto De Zerbi has emphasized his dedication to Marseille despite speculation linking him to the Manchester United managerial position, which remains unfilled on a permanent basis beyond this season's conclusion.
Nevertheless, the Italian coach acknowledged that conversations with the Ligue 1 club regarding his future prospects are necessary considering his current contractual circumstances.
De Zerbi has positioned Marseille in third place within the French league table, though they trail Paris Saint-Germain by seven points and surprise table-toppers RC Lens by eight points. His squad is also competing to advance to the Champions League knockout rounds for the first time since the 2011–12 campaign.
His impressive previous tenure with Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League—achieving a seventh-place finish in 2022–23—positions him as a viable candidate for those at Old Trafford. However, when speaking before Marseille's Champions League encounter with Liverpool, De Zerbi showed no willingness to entertain discussions about any potential move elsewhere.
"My concentration is entirely on Marseille. I chose to come here," he stated. "The day before such an important, such a pivotal match, I have no mental capacity to consider other matters. I feel extremely comfortable in this city with these players, with this organization."
De Zerbi holds a contract extending until the conclusion of the 2026–27 season, which has now entered its final 18 months and creates some ambiguity about potential developments.
"Regarding the future, we need to have discussions in the coming month, in the coming year, I'm uncertain," he mentioned.
De Zerbi Has 'Unfinished Business' With Marseille
De Zerbi Has 'Unfinished Business' With Marseille
When given the opportunity to pledge his commitment to Marseille beyond his current contract, it appears De Zerbi might be inclined to do so. His expressions about the city, its culture and its inhabitants are delivered with genuine enthusiasm, not the words of someone prepared to abandon all that for a completely new venture.
Although De Zerbi openly acknowledges his view that the Premier League is "undoubtedly the finest league globally" and that he may return someday, his allegiance clearly lies with Marseille.
"Marseille is the perfect environment for me, because the supporters adore football and they experience the passion," De Zerbi explained to TNT Sports when asked about the Manchester United speculation. "It's more of a faith than a sport, and it transcends being merely a profession.
"If you wish to be part of this club, you must live, breathe and dream football."
He mentioned that he is "constructing something extraordinary" together with sporting director Medhi Benatia and president Pablo Longoria and "striving to elevate Marseille."
He continued: "I believe my mission in this city remains incomplete. Looking ahead, certainly, the Premier League represents a unique style compared to any other competition worldwide, but currently, my attention is solely on Marseille. The Premier League is undoubtedly the premier league globally, and I cherish wonderful memories from my time at Brighton. It was a remarkable journey for me."