Marseille Suspend Villas-Boas For Spiteful Press Conference

Marseille have suspended Andre Villas-Boas following comments critical of the club’s transfer policy, with the Portuguese expected to be sacked following a disciplinary proceeding.

Villas-Boas offered to step down as Marseille’s manager on Tuesday, saying the club decided to sign Olivier Ntcham from Celtic against his wishes.

The club released a statement after his press conference on Tuesday indicating the 43-year-old would be departing imminently.

“Olympique de Marseille announces the dismissal of Andre Villas-Boas,” the statement read.

“This decision has become unavoidable given the recent and repetitive actions and attitudes that have seriously harmed Olympique de Marseille and its employees who devote themselves to it on a daily basis.

“The remarks made today during a press conference in regard to Pablo Longoria, general manager in charge of football, are unacceptable.

“His exceptional achievements should not be questioned and, on the contrary, were welcomed by all during this winter transfer window which was affected by an unprecedented crisis.

“Possible sanctions may be taken against Andre Villas-Boas following disciplinary proceedings.”