Marseille have confirmed they have parted ways with manager Andre Villas-Boas.
The news follows Villas-Boas telling media during a press conference that he had handed in his resignation.
His comments came after he said the club had signed Olivier Nitcham from Celtic, despite him telling them not to.
“It was not a decision that I took. It was specifically a player that I said no to. I was not aware of it, I learned of the signing when I woke up and went on the number one Marseille website.” He reportedly told journalists. (via GetFootballNewsFrance)
“I offered my resignation through saying that I was not in agreement with the sporting strategy.”
? This Morning:
— SPORF (@Sporf) February 2, 2021
? Andre Villas-Boas says he's offered his resignation after @OM_Officiel signed a player he didn't want.
? This Afternoon:
❌ @OM_Officiel announce they have dismissed Andre Villas-Boas.
? What is going on?! pic.twitter.com/yLfCcWAK5t
The news will only add to the huge unrest surrounding the Ligue 1 side. Their game against Rennes at the weekend was postponed after fans stormed Marseille’s Robert Louis-Dreyfus training complex on Saturday, demanding the resignation of club president Jacques Henri Eyraud.
Confirming the news in a statement, the club wrote:
“The Olympique de Marseille announces the dismissal as a conservatory of André Villas-Boas.
“This protective decision has become inevitable given the recent repetition of actions and attitudes which are seriously damaging to the Marseille Olympic institution and its employees who defend it daily.
“The comments made today at a press conference with regard to Pablo Longoria, director general in charge of football, are unacceptable.
“Its exceptional investment cannot be called into question and was on the contrary welcomed by all during this winter transfer window marked by an unprecedented crisis. Any sanctions will be taken against André Villas-Boas following a disciplinary procedure.”
Featured image credit: Getty
