In a bid to stabilize their tumultuous season, Marseille has appointed Jean-Louis Gasset as interim manager until the end of the season. This decision, driven by Marseille’s sporting director Medhi Benatia, comes after a series of managerial changes at the Stade Vélodrome. Initially, Marcelino was appointed as manager but departed after just 7 matches, followed by Gennaro Gattuso whose tenure statistically ranks among the worst in Marseille’s history.
Given the high turnover of managers in a single season, Marseille sought a stopgap solution until appointing a long-term manager for the next season. With an agreement to look for an interim coach within France, Benatia suggested Gasset to the board, which was met with approval. Gasset, formerly deputy to Laurent Blanc, was available for immediate appointment after being made unemployed by Côte d’Ivoire during the Africa Cup of Nations, aligning with Marseille’s urgent need for stability.
The appointment of Gasset is seen as an opportune move by Benatia, considering the circumstances. Gasset’s availability following his abrupt departure from the national team made him a suitable candidate to step into the role without delay. Marseille’s board, satisfied with Benatia’s suggestion, moved swiftly to secure Gasset’s services, hoping to steady the ship for the remainder of the season.
Consideration of Philippe Montanier as Alternative Option
Philippe Montanier, the former manager of Toulouse, emerged as another potential candidate to take over at Marseille temporarily, as reported by RMC Sport. However, despite being considered, the board did not reach a consensus on his appointment. Quickly dismissed as an option, Montanier’s candidacy did not gain traction, ultimately leading to the appointment of Gasset as interim manager.
The decision to pass over Montanier in favor of Gasset underscores Marseille’s desire for a specific profile in their interim manager. While Montanier’s credentials may have been noteworthy, Marseille’s hierarchy ultimately believed that Gasset’s experience and immediate availability made him the more suitable choice to guide the team through the remainder of the season.
