When the Boss Leaves, the Drama Pops: Nasri Defends Benatia in Marseille's Shake-Up

Inside Marseille's Managerial Shake-Up

Samir Nasri, a former Marseille and Manchester City star, defended Mehdi Benatia after his return to the role of sporting director with expanded powers, insisting Benatia did not intend to stay until the end of the season as the club announced on Tuesday.

Nasri told Canal+ that Benatia was really planning to leave, saying, "Honestly, it was not his intention."

He detailed his conversations with Benatia after the resignation announcement last Sunday, noting that his friend felt a "huge relief" at finally catching his breath after all the events surrounding the club.

Nasri rejected the notion that stepping back from the resignation and gaining extra powers in exchange for reducing the president Pablo Longoria's role was "pre-planned," attributing it instead to a direct request from owner Frank McCourt to postpone the notice until next summer.

The French international did not hide his frustration with the ongoing upheaval inside the Velodrome, calling it "Season 5 of Game of Thrones."

“As a Marseille supporter, they’re getting on my nerves; every two or three days there’s something new,” Nasri said angrily.

He argued the club created these crises unnecessarily, especially since the team sits fourth in the league with a strong chance of direct Champions League qualification, plus a cup run after Paris Saint-Germain’s elimination.

In his analysis of the administrative situation, Nasri said the club's latest official statement was "pointless" from his perspective, because Benatia was already responsible for the sports decisions.

He added that President Pablo Longoria used Benatia as a "lightning rod" at times to allow himself to step back and escape pressure.

Punchline 1: If Marseille's drama were a sport, they'd still be leading the league in suspense per minute.

Punchline 2: And if chaos paid salaries, Benatia would be the club’s highest earner by now.