Greenwood’s Marseille Revival: De Zerbi’s Support Amid Controversy

Mason Greenwood’s Marseille journey has caught football’s attention for both his on-field resurgence and the controversy still shadowing his career. Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi has stepped forward to defend Greenwood’s character, expressing sadness for the challenges the forward has faced and labeling him “a good person” despite his troubled past.

Mason Greenwood’s Marseille Comeback

Since joining Marseille from Manchester United, Mason Greenwood has rapidly re-established himself as one of Ligue 1’s most impactful attackers. With 10 goals to his name early in the season, Greenwood’s performances have not only helped to lift Marseille’s ambitions but have also placed him among the league’s elite scorers. His recent brace against Nice, a team that rarely concedes, has reignited discussions of his once-promising status as a future England star.

Yet, Greenwood’s footballing progress remains intertwined with the shadow of allegations from his time in England. Accused of attempted rape and assault in 2022, charges were dropped in 2023 after new evidence and the withdrawal of the complainant’s cooperation. However, the stigma endures, particularly among English journalists and fans who continue to scrutinize his every move, both on and off the pitch.

De Zerbi Backs Greenwood’s Character

Roberto De Zerbi has not shied away from publicly endorsing the 24-year-old. Speaking recently, De Zerbi said, “I never delve into the players’ private lives. But what I can say is that he’s a good person. He paid a heavy price for what happened. He arrived in the right environment and behaved well. It saddens me what happened to him because I know a very different person from the one portrayed in England.”

De Zerbi highlighted Greenwood’s consistent performances, mentioning his efforts against Atalanta and Sporting Lisbon and emphasizing the player’s growing confidence and completeness. The Marseille manager’s support echoes the sentiment within the squad, where Greenwood is described as reserved but well-liked and hard-working.

Greenwood’s Future: Club Success, International Uncertainty

While Greenwood’s return to form has helped Marseille climb the Ligue 1 table and secure Champions League football, his international prospects remain unclear. Inside the Marseille dressing room, Greenwood is seen as an upstanding teammate, supported by praise from friends like Angel Gomes, who highlights Greenwood’s positive attitude and love for football.

However, the prospect of Greenwood representing England again is slim. The Football Association and Thomas Tuchel have distanced themselves from the player, despite his improved performances in France. With the 2026 World Cup looming, Greenwood’s chance of a recall is remote. Alternatively, Jamaican citizenship acquired through his family heritage has opened the door for potential representation at international level, though recent efforts from Jamaica’s management have yet to yield a response.

Persistent Criticism and Rebuilding Reputation

Despite his impressive statistics—21 goals and six assists last season, directly earning Marseille 16 points—Greenwood’s reputation off the pitch remains fragile. Hostility from English fans follows him abroad, with social media abuse and stadium chants reminding the forward that rebuilding public trust will take longer than regaining form.

Manchester United, after dropping the charges, acknowledged Greenwood’s mistakes but also confirmed that the evidence did not justify contract termination. The club, facing mounting pressure, opted for a loan to Getafe before Greenwood found a permanent home at Marseille, where he has thrived under De Zerbi’s guidance.

Greenwood’s Marseille Journey and What Lies Ahead

Greenwood’s Marseille experience underscores the complexity of life for athletes facing public scrutiny. While his performances have silenced some critics in France, the English media and supporters remain less forgiving. Yet, his ability to deliver on the pitch speaks to a player determined to move forward.

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Opinion: Resilience on the Pitch, Challenges Off It

Mason Greenwood’s ability to separate his football from his personal life has been remarkable, but the journey to rebuild his reputation is far from over. In a sport where performance often overshadows personal history, Greenwood’s case is a reminder of how difficult it can be to escape the shadows of the past—even as one writes new chapters on the field.