Mason Greenwood Marseille Future in Doubt: Exit Rumors Swirl
Reports emerging from France suggest that Mason Greenwood, the former Manchester United striker, could be on the verge of leaving Marseille this summer. According to a French journalist, despite a productive season on the pitch, questions are being raised about his future with the Ligue 1 club.
Greenwood made the move to Marseille from Manchester United in the summer of 2024 for a reported transfer fee of £26.6 million (€31.6 million). The 23-year-old forward quickly integrated into the team and has become a key offensive player.
Since arriving in France, Greenwood has showcased impressive form, netting 16 goals and providing 3 assists in 28 appearances for the team under manager Roberto De Zerbi. His contributions have been instrumental in Marseille’s campaign, positioning them second in the Ligue 1 standings. However, they face a significant gap of 19 points behind league leaders PSG.
De Zerbi’s Challenge to Greenwood: Consistency is Key
Despite Greenwood’s goal-scoring record, Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi has publicly challenged the young forward to elevate his game further. This challenge became apparent when De Zerbi, aged 45, surprisingly benched Greenwood for a home match against Lens on March 8th, which Marseille lost 1-0. Following the game, De Zerbi stated that Greenwood needed to “do more” to reach the level of a “champion.”
This wasn’t an isolated incident. Greenwood also started on the bench in the subsequent high-profile match against PSG, which Marseille lost 3-1 at Parc des Princes. He was brought on as a substitute in the second half but struggled to make a significant impact.
After the PSG defeat, De Zerbi elaborated on his decision, explaining that Greenwood was “not in the right condition to play.” He emphasized Greenwood’s importance to the team while simultaneously stressing the need for improved fitness and overall contribution.
“Mason is a crucial player for us,” De Zerbi affirmed. “But if I’m not mistaken, at the beginning of the season Dembele wasn’t in the starting XI. We need Mason, but he has to be in good physical condition. It’s very important at this point in the season.” This statement reveals a pattern of De Zerbi pushing Greenwood to reach his full potential, drawing parallels with how he managed other players like Dembele.
These recent instances are not the first time the Italian manager has publicly urged Greenwood to step up. De Zerbi’s consistent message has been one of high expectations and a demand for greater consistency and dedication.
Mason Greenwood in action for Marseille last weekend (Credit:Getty)
“No one can have more respect for him (Greenwood) than I do,” De Zerbi stated earlier in March, indicating a positive relationship, yet simultaneously setting a high bar. He continued, “But that doesn’t change anything: I expect more from him. He has to do more because what he is currently showing is not enough.”
De Zerbi further elaborated on the required improvements, “If he wants to achieve his ambition of becoming a champion, he has to be more consistent, sacrifice more and be more determined.” This direct feedback suggests that while De Zerbi values Greenwood’s talent, he believes there’s a significant gap to bridge for him to reach elite status.
While Greenwood is under contract with Marseille until 2029, speculation about a potential summer departure is gaining traction. RMC Sport journalist Florent Germain has added fuel to these rumors.
According to Germain, “He is a player that can make a big difference but honestly, if he doesn’t react, questions will be asked about a departure for Greenwood this summer.” Germain, speaking via BFM Marseille, highlighted the precariousness of Greenwood’s situation. “If he isn’t able to understand that his manager and his directors fought against a risk – more than a sporting risk – in bringing him, to give him visibility, because OM isn’t Getafe,” Germain concluded, emphasizing the significant opportunity and platform Marseille provides, alongside the pressure to perform.
**Key Takeaways on Mason Greenwood’s Situation at Marseille:**
- Transfer Speculation: Reports from a French journalist suggest Mason Greenwood could leave Marseille in the summer transfer window.
- Impressive Stats: Greenwood has scored 16 goals and assisted 3 in 28 games for Marseille since joining from Manchester United.
- Manager’s Challenge: Roberto De Zerbi has publicly challenged Greenwood to improve his consistency, fitness, and overall contribution.
- Substitute Appearances: Greenwood was benched in recent key matches against Lens and PSG, further highlighting De Zerbi’s demands.
- Contract Length: Despite being contracted until 2029, a summer move is possible if performance doesn’t improve and manager concerns persist.
Will Mason Greenwood heed his manager’s challenge and solidify his place at Marseille, or will the summer bring about a surprising transfer? Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
**What do you think? Will Greenwood stay at Marseille? Share your thoughts in the comments below!**