Greenwood shines on Marseille’s debut, scores brace

Olympique de Marseille new signing, Mason Greenwood was instrumental in Marseille’s 5-1 drubbing of Brest.

Greenwood took just three minutes to open his account in Marseille’s season-opening trip to Brest. He had his second  the same first half after scoring a penalty he won.

The former Manchester United outcast was Marseille’s first signing  after he spent last season on loan in Spain with Getafe and have not played for the Red Devils since being arrested in January 2022.

He was then charged with attempted rape, assault and controlling and coercive behaviour.

Greenwood firmly denied any all charges and his case were however dropped in February 2023 when key witnesses withdrew.

His switch to France faced several opposition with protests from fans and even vocal criticism from the French city’s Mayor.

Mayor of Marseille, Benoit Payan, opposed the signing, insisting that he does not want the club ‘shamed by someone who hits his wife.

However, Roberto De Zerbi, who also joined as new head coach, pushed for the signing of the Englishman.

He went on hailing him after his debut brace. “Mason Greenwood is a player who is different from the others, he has an extraordinary level,” De Zerbi said after the game.

“I am happy that he scored. This will calm the controversies that surrounded his arrival”, he added.

Greenwood also received plaudits from his team-mates for his performance as he helped Marseille to a 5-1 win on opening weekend.