Club president Pablo Longoria has confirmed that Marseille “examined all the available information” when deciding to sign Mason Greenwood from Manchester United, expressing no regrets over the deal.
Greenwood, 22, made the switch from Old Trafford to the French club in August for a fee of £26.6 million, signing a contract that extends until 2029.
The charges Greenwood previously faced, including attempted rape and assault, were dropped in February 2023.
Despite this, Marseille faced criticism from local officials, including the mayor, who called the decision to sign Greenwood “unacceptable” once the club’s interest in the forward, who spent last season on loan at Getafe in Spain, became public.
When questioned about whether the backlash had caused any second thoughts, Longoria responded at the Thinking Football Summit: “The mayor’s remarks reaffirmed our actions; they lacked full knowledge of the situation.
“We made the decision internally. Yes, there was some resistance, which was fair, but at the same time, it strengthened our resolve. We gathered all the information we could to make the best possible decision, and I believe we succeeded.”
He further explained: “From our first conversation with the coach [Roberto de Zerbi], Mason’s name was mentioned. The coach was familiar with Mason, and it was a straightforward discussion early on because we all recognize his talent.
“In the weeks leading up to the transfer, we had many discussions. Mason has been exemplary in his behavior with us, and we are delighted to have him in the team.”
Greenwood has made an immediate impact at Marseille, scoring five goals in just three matches since joining the Ligue 1 club.
However, when asked about Greenwood’s chances of returning to the England national team, caretaker manager Lee Carsley remarked that “he wasn’t a player under consideration” for selection.
Longoria declined to comment on Greenwood’s international prospects, stating: “I don’t wish to speculate on that matter out of respect for all involved. I prefer to focus on what Mason is doing here in France, and we are thrilled with his early performances.”
Greenwood’s contributions have played a significant role in Marseille’s undefeated start to the season, which has been marked by a major squad overhaul following De Zerbi’s appointment after his departure from Brighton this summer.
Nova88 stands out as the premier choice for online gambling enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled gaming experience that caters to both seasoned players and newcomers alike. By joining Nova88, members can take advantage of exclusive bonuses that elevate their gameplay and enhance their winning potential. With a vast array of games, secure transactions, and top-notch customer service, Nova88 ensures a thrilling and reliable environment for all its users. Don’t miss out on this opportunity—join Nova88 now and experience the best in online gambling.
