Didier Deschamps leaves Marseille by mutual consent

Didier Deschamps Since ending a hugely successful playing career which saw him win the Champions League, numerous league titles plus a World Cup and European Championship with France, Didier Deschamps has continued to impress in management. He (GETTY IMAGES)

Ligue 1 side Marseille have announced that coach Didier Deschamps has left the club by mutual agreement.

The 43-year-old's future at Marseille had been uncertain with reports claiming he wanted to leave the club he had once captained after three years in charge.

There was further speculation after Laurent Blanc stepped down as France boss on Saturday, with his former Les Bleus team-mate instantly linked with succeeding him in the role.

Today the club finally put to an end such rumours by releasing a statement on their official website which reveals Deschamps' future had been unclear for some time.

It read: "Didier Deschamps was received on May 23 by club officials to prepare for the 2012-2013 season.

"Didier Deschamps stated his desire to leave OM and the terms of his departure were considered.

"In the days that followed, Mr Didier Deschamps repeatedly confirmed that he was and remained the coach of OM.

"Olympique de Marseille and Didier Deschamps have finally decided by mutual agreement not to continue working for the 2012-2013 season.

"Olympique de Marseille thank Didier Deschamps for his work for the team for three years and wish him good luck for the future.

"Didier Deschamps thanks Olympique de Marseille for their support throughout these last three seasons."

One candidate to put himself forward to replace Deschamps is their former striker Fabrizio Ravanelli.

The 43-year-old played with OM for two years from 1998 in a career which also took in clubs in his native Italy, England and Scotland.

During his time at Marseille, they won the Ligue 1 title and were also runners-up in the UEFA Cup. Today Ravanelli made clear his interest in the job.

He told Le Parisien: "I have had no official contact with the club but yes, I am dreaming of the challenge of OM."

Ravanelli has no management experience and is currently the reserve coach at Serie A side Juventus although he believes this should not hinder him.

He added: "We must start somewhere in life! Laurent Blanc started one day with Bordeaux, Monaco (Didier) Deschamps, (Roberto) Di Matteo Chelsea, (Vincenzo) Montella at Roma ... I really hope they give me my chance."

PA