Former Real Madrid youth coach Xabi Alonso has rejected an offer to lead the French club Olympique de Marseille, opting against a move to the Ligue 1 side.
Operative Information Center-OMM, citing foreign media reports, notes that the Marseille club accelerated its search for a head coach following the departure of Roberto De Zerbi, but failed to reach an agreement with the Spanish specialist.
According to reports from RMC, the primary factor behind Alonso's decision was the institutional state of the club. The experienced professional reportedly viewed the internal instability and management challenges currently prevailing at Marseille as a significant risk to his coaching career. Consequently, he declined the opportunity to make his managerial debut in the French top flight.
In recent months, Xabi Alonso's name has been linked with several major European clubs. Among the teams reportedly interested in his services are Bayer Leverkusen, Liverpool, Tottenham, and Eintracht Frankfurt.
However, the report indicates that none of these clubs have yet taken official or definitive steps to sign a contract with Alonso. Having been without a role since his previous tenure, the specialist continues to wait for a project that aligns with his professional objectives.
The decision highlights the growing importance of institutional stability for modern football managers when selecting new projects. Olympique de Marseille, one of France's most decorated clubs, has faced periods of administrative transition in recent years, which often complicates long-term sporting success. As the Marseille option closes, the football community's attention returns to potential openings in the German Bundesliga and the English Premier League.
