Analysis: Medhi Benatia and OM, what impact will his departure to Al-Ittihad have?

The situation: what's happening

Medhi Benatia, an important figure at Olympique de Marseille, is about to end his adventure with the Phocaean club. According to information from Fabrizio Romano, relayed by But Football Club, Benatia is being courted by Al-Ittihad, a Saudi club undergoing major restructuring. This team is looking to anticipate the post-Ramon Planes era by offering Benatia a sporting director position with a particularly advantageous contract.

This move comes as Marseille is going through a transitional phase in its sporting direction, marked by adjustments and departures. Benatia's potential departure to an ambitious project abroad could therefore have repercussions on both the club's internal management and its future directions.

Why is this happening?

Medhi Benatia's candidacy for a management position at Al-Ittihad can be explained by several factors. On the one hand, the Saudi club is seeking renewal and wants to prepare for the post-Ramon Planes era, which requires an experienced profile recognized in international football. Benatia, with his background and knowledge of European football, meets this need.

On the other hand, the situation at OM seems conducive to a departure. The Marseille club has recently undergone reshuffles in its management, which may limit internal career progression opportunities for Benatia. The Saudi project, with an attractive contract, represents an opportunity difficult to refuse.