Benatia leaves Marseille amid 'growing dissatisfaction'

Medhi Benatia revealed a "rift that I deeply regret" as he left his role as Marseille's sporting director.

The Moroccan's exit came just days after the departure of Roberto de Zerbi as manager of the French club.

De Zerbi left by mutual consent on Wednesday in the wake of a 5-0 thrashing by Paris St-Germain and the Ligue 1 side's recent exit from the Champions League following a 3-0 defeat at Club Brugge.

And Benatia admitted the "current climate" at the club had been a factor in his decision.

"I am leaving with the feeling that I have done my utmost on a professional level, but with regret that I have not been able to calm the environment around the team," said the former Bayern Munich and Juventus defender in a social media post.

"Despite recent setbacks and some cruel sporting scenarios, the project is moving forward.

"But I cannot ignore the current climate. I feel a growing dissatisfaction, a rift that I deeply regret. In Marseille, results are the only judge."

Marseille are fourth in the French top flight, with interim coach Jacques Abardonado leading the side to a 2-2 draw against Strasbourg on Saturday amid protests.

Supporters behind the goals at the Stade Velodrome boycotted the opening 15 minutes and whistled their team during the match.