In the ever-shifting landscape of European football, few managers are as polarizing or as tactically influential as Roberto De Zerbi. Known as the "architect of baiting the press," the Italian coach has spent the last few years transforming teams from mid-table dreamers into tactical powerhouses. However, De Zerbi finds himself at a career crossroads.
Following a turbulent exit from Marseille just days ago, he has once again become the most sought-after free agent in the sport, with Premier League giants and Italian heavyweights vying for his signature.
Roberto De Zerbi: Current Status and New Club
As of February 11, 2026, Roberto De Zerbi is officially a free agent after leaving Olympique de Marseille by mutual agreement.
The Marseille Exit: After a crushing 5–0 defeat to arch-rivals PSG and a premature exit from the Champions League, the relationship between De Zerbi and the Marseille hierarchy became untenable.
The Next Move: While he was heavily linked to the Tottenham vacancy following Thomas Frank's sacking on February 11, De Zerbi reportedly rejected an interim proposal, preferring a long-term project.
Why did De Zerbi leave Brighton and Marseille?
De Zerbi’s departures are rarely quiet; they are often the result of his uncompromising demand for total control and specific recruitment.
Brighton (2024): He left the Seagulls after "differences in vision" regarding the club’s transfer policy. While the fans adored him for their 6th-place finish, De Zerbi wanted more established stars to compete in Europe, while the club remained committed to its data-led model.Marseille (2026): His exit was fueled by a "rollercoaster" of results and internal friction.
Tactical Philosophy: "Baiting the Press"
De Zerbi's tactics are so distinct they are often referred to as "De Zerbi-ball." His primary goal is not just to keep possession, but to manipulate the opponent into pressing his team.
Key Tactical Pillars:
The "Sole of the Foot" Pause: Players are instructed to stop the ball dead with the sole of their foot.
Verticality: Once the "trap" is sprung and the opponent commits to a high press, his teams move the ball with lightning speed to the wingers and strikers.
Career History: Teams Coached
De Zerbi’s rise from the lower leagues of Italy to the Champions League is a testament to his tactical brilliance.
| Club | Dates Joined/Left | Notable Achievement |
| Foggia | 2014 – 2016 | Coppa Italia Lega Pro Winner |
| Palermo | Sept 2016 – Nov 2016 | Short stint in Serie A |
| Benevento | 2017 – 2018 | Praised for style despite relegation |
| Sassuolo | 2018 – 2021 | Consecutive 8th-place finishes |
| Shakhtar Donetsk | 2021 – 2022 | Ukrainian Super Cup Winner |
| Brighton | 2022 – 2024 | Highest-ever finish (6th) |
| Marseille | 2024 – Feb 2026 | Guided OM to 2nd place in 24/25 |
Personal Life: Is De Zerbi Married?
Roberto De Zerbi is famously private about his family life, preferring to keep the spotlight on the pitch.
Marital Status: He is married and has children. While his wife rarely appears in the public eye, former players have noted De Zerbi’s deep personal care for his team; he once stayed on a FaceTime call with a Brighton player's wife for over an hour to discuss the player's post-surgery recovery.
Salary and Net Worth
In 2026, De Zerbi is one of the highest-valued coaching assets in Europe.
Salary: At Marseille, he was earning approximately €4 million (£3.4m) per year.
Compensation: When he left Brighton, the Seagulls received roughly £5 million in compensation. Any club looking to hire him permanently in the summer of 2026 can expect to offer a package starting at £6 million+ annually.