De Zerbi’s United offer revealed in Marseille dressing room

January 15, 2026 Oliver Obel

A behind-the-scenes moment at Marseille has added an unexpected layer to Manchester United’s ongoing search for a new manager, underlining the Premier League’s continued pull on elite coaches across Europe.

As United prepare for another summer reset, one reported decision by Roberto De Zerbi has attracted particular attention.

United’s uncertainty continues

Manchester United are again navigating managerial upheaval after dismissing Ruben Amorim just 14 months into his tenure. His departure followed a reported breakdown in relations with senior figures at the club.

Darren Fletcher briefly stepped in before United appointed Michael Carrick as caretaker manager until the end of the season. Carrick will lead the side into the upcoming derby against Manchester City, assisted by Steve Holland, Jonny Evans, Jonathan Woodgate and Travis Binnion.

Club executives are expected to appoint a permanent manager in the summer.

Why De Zerbi remains of interest

Roberto De Zerbi continues to be linked with the role. Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has reported that the Italian coach is “one of the names under consideration and appreciated by people at United,” reflecting long-standing admiration for his work in England.

When INEOS assessed potential managerial appointments in May 2024, De Zerbi was among those interviewed before the club opted to retain Erik ten Hag.

By the time Ten Hag was later dismissed, De Zerbi had already taken charge at Marseille, signing a contract that runs until 2027.

A rare dressing-room revelation

According to L’Equipe, De Zerbi later received a formal contract proposal from Manchester United and chose to reveal it to his Marseille players. The French newspaper reported that the episode occurred during a team talk ahead of the opening Ligue 1 match against Stade Brest in August 2024.

In an unusual motivational gesture, the contract was reportedly projected onto a screen. De Zerbi is said to have told the squad:

“This is where I could have been, but I put my passion before money. I came to Marseille for the passion.”

The moment was intended to reinforce his commitment to Marseille rather than signal any desire to leave.

Proven pedigree, multiple options

De Zerbi built his reputation during his time at Brighton, guiding the club to a top-seven Premier League finish and their first-ever European campaign, with a win rate of 42.7 percent.

He followed that by finishing second behind Paris Saint-Germain in his first season at Marseille. While he is understood to be open to a future return to the Premier League, United are also considering a number of alternative candidates, including Andoni Iraola, Oliver Glasner, Marco Silva, Thomas Tuchel and Mauricio Pochettino.

For now, De Zerbi remains focused on Marseille but United’s interest appears far from settled.

Sources: L’Equipe, Fabrizio Romano (via Goal), Get French Football News