Sérgio Conceição shortlisted by Marseille: Portuguese coach ready to swap Saudi Arabia for the Vélodrome

Following the official departure of Roberto De Zerbi, Marseille's management has returned to considering the Portuguese specialist as a leading option.

Details: According to L'Equipe, Sérgio Conceição has once again emerged as the top contender for the vacant head coach position. The Portuguese tactician, currently in charge of Saudi side Al-Ittihad, has already expressed his interest in returning to Europe to take the helm of the Provençal club.

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Reports suggest that Conceição has appeared on Marseille's shortlist several times before, but this time his appointment seems more logical than ever. After the instability under De Zerbi, Marseille is in need of a firm hand and discipline—qualities the former Porto boss is renowned for. Sérgio is highly motivated to take on this challenge, despite being under contract in Saudi Arabia.

For Marseille's hierarchy, Conceição is an attractive candidate due to his wealth of Champions League experience and his proven ability to build pragmatic, winning teams. In the wake of a crisis, highlighted by the heavy 0-5 defeat to PSG, the Portuguese coach is seen as someone who can quickly shore up the defense and restore the team's fighting spirit.

It's worth noting that Conceição only took over at Al-Ittihad in October 2025, and so far things haven't been going his way in Saudi Arabia—the club currently sits just seventh in the table after winning the title last season.

Reminder: Nigeria national team head coach Eric Chelle has been offered to Marseille—intermediaries have already started negotiations.