Mehdi Benatia: “Roma has stayed with me.” | OneFootball

After a career spanning Italy, Germany, Turkey, and Qatar, Mehdi Benatia has returned to where it all began, Marseille, this time as sporting director.

In an interview with Corriere dello Sport, the former defender retraced his career and revealed several behind-the-scenes stories, including his relationship with Roma and his disappointment over a promise Walter Sabatini didn’t keep.

“There are places, fans, locations, but also colors and smells that stay with you. Rome is like that. Marseille is like that.”

“Sabatini? Walter would call me on Fridays or Saturdays. Based on what I told him, he could tell how the game would go. I was disappointed when he didn’t keep his promises about the renewal, but I still have respect for him. Even for Massara: I’m so happy he’s at Roma. I called to congratulate him, even though he initially told me it wasn’t done yet.”