Marseille is set to appoint Roberto De Zerbi as their new head coach, following the retirement of Jean-Louis Gasset at the end of the French league season. The French club announced on Monday, June 24, that an “agreement in principle” has been reached with De Zerbi, who previously led Brighton to their highest-ever Premier League finish and a spot in the UEFA Europa League.

Marseille’s statement revealed that they are working to finalise De Zerbi’s arrival and prepare for his tenure. The club, owned by American Frank McCourt since 2016, has struggled with instability, having changed coaches 30 times since the start of the century. Despite their historical success, including a Champions League victory in 1993, Marseille has failed to win the domestic league since 2010 and missed out on European qualification last season after finishing eighth.

De Zerbi’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to restore stability and success to the once-dominant French football powerhouse.