De Zerbi Wanted Greenwood at Marseille

 

It was inevitable that one-cap England international Greenwood would be moving clubs this summer after his impressive performance on loan at Getafe last season, where he was named the club's Player of the Year. 

United allowed offers for players no longer part of their long-term strategy.

Despite interest from clubs all around Europe, the 22-year-old attacker has decided to try his luck in France.

 According to L'Equipe, former Brighton manager De Zerbi said, "Greenwood is the first player I called," while explaining his role in facilitating the transfer.

 His dad and I talked; we're about the same age. The requirements of this club are severe, and I forewarned him of them by saying, "OM is OM." In response, he recalled the legendary OM playing in the European Cup finals.

Some Marseille fans were unhappy with Greenwood's hiring, but De Zerbi addressed the controversy by saying, "I said that when a player becomes my player, I am the first to pin him to the wall if he makes a mistake." 

This led to Greenwood's temporary expulsion from Stade Velodrome. Outside, though, he has my unwavering support, just as I would give my son's.

With two goals in preseason play, Greenwood has already made an impression for Marseille. After settling into his role during friendly matches, the highly regarded winger will be ready to start the 2024–25 Ligue 1 season on Saturday away at Brest.