Heated Exchange between Marseille Executives and Representatives of Fan Groups Revealed

Olympique de Marseille are in the middle of a major management crisis, even by Les Phocéens’ standards. Despite an acceptable start to the Ligue 1 season with three draws and two wins, Spanish head coach Marcelino has handed in his resignation amidst heavy criticism from representatives of fan groups regarding his playing style and the current sporting policy in play at Marseille. The Spaniard’s departure has been made official this Wednesday.

The ongoing crisis started on Monday night during a meeting between four Marseille executives – Club president Pablo Longoria, Sporting director Javier Ribalta, Financial director Stéphane Tissier as well as club CEO and Strategy director Pedro Iriondo – and representatives of fan groups. The meeting occurred at OM’s training center and turned extremely tense with fans asking for the resignations of their interlocutors. An official statement, released on Tuesday night, mentioned the threat of “a war” waged by fans.