Mason Greenwood is under the spotlight again as pressure mounts on Marseille following a poor run of form in Ligue 1.
The former Manchester United forward, who made a strong start to life in France, has struggled in recent weeks amid criticism over his performances and attitude.
Greenwood, who has netted 16 goals in 29 Ligue 1 appearances this season, was recently benched for two consecutive matches by head coach Roberto De Zerbi, who called for more sacrifice and consistency from the 22-year-old.
“No one respects him more than I do,” said De Zerbi. “But that doesn’t change the reality—I expect more. If he wants to be a champion, he has to be more consistent, work harder, and show greater determination.”
Despite the tactical move, Greenwo⁸last five appearances. His performance in Marseille’s recent 3-0 loss to Monaco drew sharp criticism, with French outlet La Provence rating him 1/10.
The paper accused the player of showing “a lack of seriousness,” despite his obvious talent, noting that “he exasperates when he’s having a bad day.”
Amid swirling speculation, reports emerged that teammates Pierre-Emile Højbjerg and Adrien Rabiot had allegedly approached the club’s director of football, Medhi Benatia, urging the removal of Greenwood and Brazilian winger Luis Henrique from the squad.
Benatia was quick to dismiss the claims, telling La Provence:
“Can you imagine? He didn’t come to see me. And what’s more, do you think I need a player to tell me that?
“Højbjerg is one of the most professional players in the dressing room. Rabiot, too. These two are true leaders, and at no point did they come to me to ask for anyone’s removal. The people saying this do not want what’s best for OM.”
Marseille’s recent dip in form—losing four of their last five Ligue 1 matches—has dropped them to fourth place, behind Monaco. With only the top three earning Champions League qualification, the club now faces mounting pressure, with Lyon, Lille, and Strasbourg all close behind in the table.
Benatia also rejected suggestions of a divided dressing room or discontent over De Zerbi’s tactics, maintaining that the team remains united in pursuit of a Champions League spot.
