Mason Greenwood, the former Manchester United forward, has officially joined Marseille in a transfer that has sparked intense debate. As Greenwood settles into his new club, he is adamant about focusing solely on his football career this season. The move, surrounded by controversy, has been a topic of heated discussion among fans and officials alike.
Greenwood’s Fresh Start in Marseille
During a press conference on Friday, July 19, Greenwood expressed his excitement about joining the French club, saying he already feels at home. “I’m thrilled to be here at the Stade Velodrome,” Greenwood said. Despite the enthusiasm, he made it clear that he would not discuss any off-field allegations, a topic that has followed him from his time at Manchester United. Journalists from various media outlets, including The Athletic, were prevented from asking questions about the allegations. United had decided against reintegrating Greenwood into their first-team squad following a public and internal backlash last summer. Instead, Greenwood spent a successful loan spell at Getafe in La Liga, where he was named the club’s player of the season.
Controversy Surrounding the Transfer
The UK’s Crown Prosecution Service dropped charges against Greenwood last February due to a lack of evidence, but the allegations have continued to cast a shadow over his career. His transfer to Marseille, which cost the French club £26.7 million, has divided the fanbase. Marseille’s mayor, Benoit Payan, openly opposed the transfer, suggesting it would bring “shame” to the city. However, Greenwood received a warm welcome from Marseille fans upon his arrival. Addressing the controversy, Greenwood stated, “I am aware of all this, of course, but I do not want to enter into any controversy. I already expressed my feelings last year. Today, all of this is now behind us.” He spoke fondly of his family and expressed his eagerness to begin his journey in Marseille.
Support from Marseille’s Leadership
Greenwood highlighted the influence of Marseille’s new head coach, Roberto De Zerbi, in his decision to join the club. Meanwhile, Marseille club president Pablo Longoria acknowledged the complexities surrounding Greenwood’s arrival but emphasized a focus on the future. “I respect everyone’s opinion,” Longoria said. “But I am not here to get into controversy. We are talking about the past. It is a complex and old situation.” Longoria assured fans that the club would support Greenwood in achieving its objectives. “As president, I will support Mason to help him achieve the club’s objectives. I will help him as a player and as a man. He has all the values that we want to develop in the club like all his teammates who are here and those who will arrive.” Greenwood’s transfer to Marseille marks a new chapter in his career, one that he hopes will be defined by his performance on the pitch rather than his past controversies.
Source: The Athletic
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