Unexpectedly. Marseille wanted Xabi Alonso to take over as head coach – he refused

French side Marseille had considered Xabi Alonso as a candidate for the head coach position.

Details: According to RMC, Marseille attempted to appoint Spanish manager Xabi Alonso. The club’s management saw the former Bayer and Real Madrid boss as the ideal leader to restore Marseille to the top of Ligue 1 and make a strong showing in European competitions. However, their attempt to lure a coach of such caliber proved unsuccessful.

• See also: Galatasaray vs Juventus: prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups – 17 February 2026

Despite the ambitions of the French side, Xabi Alonso turned down the initial approach. The main reason cited was the current instability within and around the club. Ongoing changes in management and uncertainty over the club’s long-term direction failed to convince the Spanish coach, who is highly selective about his next projects.

It’s worth noting that at the start of 2026, Xabi Alonso became a free agent after being dismissed by Real Madrid.

Reminder: Mehdi Benatia has officially remained as Marseille’s sporting director.