According to reports, the strong remarks made by Mehdi Benatia, Marseille’s sporting director, against his own team and club are rare in the world of football. He claimed that Marseille has developed a toxic atmosphere, and it’s no surprise they can’t succeed.

Benatia, speaking to the newspaper La Provence, started explosively: “I came to Marseille only because of Pablo Longoria, the club president. The moment he leaves, I will also leave Marseille because there’s no reason left for me to love this club except for my friend Pablo Longoria.”

When asked to explain his dissatisfaction with Marseille, Benatia said: “I have problems with many people. Many who claim to belong to this club but are only pursuing their personal interests. In my entire life, I’ve never seen a situation where, when things aren’t going well on the pitch, people from inside the club try to sow discord and division.”

Benatia continued: “Some think this is normal? What’s normal? This is rudeness, this is ingratitude. This is corruption. This is a toxic atmosphere. This club has developed a toxic atmosphere, and it’s really unbearable for me.”

Marseille’s sporting director then praised coach Roberto De Zerbi to clarify that his criticisms were not directed at him. Benatia said: “De Zerbi is angry and frustrated, just like me, because he has worked hard for the team and came with enthusiasm to help us. I don’t know if the players are upset with him, some of whom are spies, but De Zerbi has no problems and has done his job perfectly.”