Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
Marseille Manager Explains Mason Greenwood Bench Decision Amidst Golden Boot Race
French football headlines have been dominated by Marseille’s recent team selections, specifically the absence of Mason Greenwood from the starting lineup. Despite an impressive season with 15 Ligue 1 goals, placing him firmly in the golden boot conversation, the former Manchester United forward has found himself on the bench for crucial fixtures. Manager Roberto De Zerbi has now addressed speculation surrounding Greenwood’s recent benching, dismissing rumors of a transfer or work rate issues.
De Zerbi Clarifies Greenwood’s Bench Role
Roberto De Zerbi, the Marseille head coach, has publicly clarified the reasons behind Mason Greenwood’s reduced playing time in recent matches. Speaking at a press conference, De Zerbi aimed to dispel what he perceived as media-driven speculation and “chaos” surrounding the player’s situation.
Addressing Speculation and “Scoops”
De Zerbi stated, “We need to clarify the Mason Greenwood case a little, because you journalists are always in a position to change things a little, to create some scoops.” He suggested that media interpretations had deviated from the actual reasons for Greenwood’s benching.
Family Matters and Physical Demands
The Marseille boss explained the situation is related to personal and physical factors. “Greenwood is a very good person whom I love, as I love his father,” De Zerbi began, emphasizing his positive relationship with the player. He continued, “He’s had a bit of a tough time lately because he had a daughter who was born, and I don’t think he’s used to playing such an intense season and being a main player. I think he paid for it physically.”
Workload and Intensity Concerns
De Zerbi elaborated on the physical demands, stating, “That is to say that he didn’t push himself and wasn’t 100 percent as I wanted in training, in terms of what I expect from a player like him.” He indicated that Greenwood’s physical condition had dipped due to the rigors of a demanding season, impacting his training intensity.
Building a Team “With a Soul”
De Zerbi concluded by outlining his broader vision for Marseille: “His physical condition has declined a little, but my project in Marseille is not only to qualify for the Champions League, it is also to create something like what Luis Enrique has created (at PSG). He has created a team, a group of strong players, but with a soul.” This suggests De Zerbi is focused on building a cohesive and resilient team beyond just individual talent.
Greenwood’s Journey to Marseille
Having formerly been considered a rising star at Manchester United, Greenwood’s career took a turn following his arrest in January 2022. Though charges were later dropped, he ultimately departed Old Trafford last summer.
Revival in Spain and International Ambitions
Greenwood revitalized his career during a loan spell at Getafe in Spain, registering 10 goals and six assists. Furthermore, he has formally requested to switch his international allegiance from England to Jamaica.