'I didn't run away when Putin dropped bombs on Kyiv' - Roberto De Zerbi sets the record straight on Marseille future two weeks after he threatened to quit

Their 3-1 loss to Auxerre earlier this month marked Marseille’s second consecutive setback at the Stade Velodrome, raising questions about the Italian’s tenure. Following the defeat, De Zerbi openly addressed his position during the post-match press conference, emphasising accountability and expressing his desire to put down his papers.

"If the problem is me, I’m ready to leave. I’m leaving without the money, I don’t care about the rest. I don’t want to make excuses and talk nonsense.," the 45-year-old declared.

However, after the international break De Zerbi seems to have changed his mind. The former Brighton manager brushed aside any exit talks and vowed to turn things around at Marseille amid a dismal form that has seen them win just once in five matches.

De Zerbi even drew comparisons to his time at Shakhtar Donetsk, where he coached during the Russian invasion of Ukraine in early 2022 to express his firm resolve to continue at Marseille.

"Me, the players and the club in general, do not accept the match against Auxerre," he told reporters. "On the pitch, it was not enough. I did not use strong words. I just assumed my responsibilities. We played five matches at the Velodrome: one victory, two draws and two defeats. I assume my own responsibilities. If you think that I am going to resign, that it is my idea, I really want to emphasise that I am not running away. I am staying here, I did not run away from Shakhtar even when Putin launched bombings in Kyiv. I believe in this Marseille team, in the players that I train. I am not going anywhere else."

Despite their recent struggles, Marseille remain in third place in Ligue 1 ahead of an important clash with Lens. The team has enjoyed a relatively strong start under De Zerbi, but home performances have left much to be desired. And the Italian knows that improving results at the Velodrome will be crucial to sustaining their momentum as the season progresses.