Mason Greenwood’s resurgence in France has been nothing short of remarkable, and Marseille has now offered a fresh update on the forward’s future amid growing transfer speculation. Since arriving from Manchester United in the summer of 2024, Greenwood has flourished in Ligue 1, producing goal-scoring numbers that have quickly made him one of the most talked-about players in European football.
The former United academy graduate enjoyed a sensational debut campaign with the French club, finishing as joint top scorer in Ligue 1 with 21 goals. His prolific return played a pivotal role in Marseille securing qualification for the Champions League, immediately transforming perceptions of his career trajectory. Unsurprisingly, such a form has led to questions over whether Marseille could be tempted to cash in, but club president Pablo Longoria has now delivered a clear message on the situation.
Greenwood’s revival continues in Ligue 1
Greenwood’s impact has not faded following his explosive first season in France. He has carried that momentum into the current campaign, once again establishing himself as one of Ligue 1’s most decisive attacking forces. In just 15 league appearances this season, Greenwood has already registered 11 goals and contributed four assists, underlining his importance to Roberto De Zerbi’s side.
Across all competitions, the numbers are equally impressive. The England-born forward has amassed 14 goals and four assists in 21 outings, consistently influencing games with his finishing, movement, and increasing all-around involvement. His performances have earned widespread praise, including glowing comments from head coach De Zerbi, who has previously suggested Greenwood possesses the ability to compete for football’s most prestigious individual honours.
Such productivity has inevitably inflated Greenwood’s market value. Internally, Marseille believes his current form places him in a valuation bracket approaching €100 million, a figure that reflects not only his output but also his age and development under De Zerbi’s guidance.
Manchester United faces reduced financial upside
While Greenwood’s success has been positive for Marseille, it presents a more complicated picture for Manchester United. The Premier League club included a 50 per cent sell-on clause when Greenwood completed his £26.6 million move to France in July 2024, entitling United to half of any future profit generated from his sale.
However, that potential windfall could be significantly reduced. The structure of the deal allows Marseille to gradually increase its economic rights in the player depending on performance milestones and longevity at the club. As Greenwood continues to excel and remains in Marseille colours, United’s share of any future profit is set to diminish.
This represents a financial blow for the Old Trafford side, particularly in the context of transfer planning and Profit and Sustainability Rules. Any delay in Greenwood being sold means United must wait longer to realise funds from the clause, potentially restricting their flexibility in upcoming transfer windows.
Longoria’s comments suggest there is little appetite to sell in the near future. Marseille is not only satisfied with Greenwood’s contribution but also has the option to further increase their economic stake should they qualify for the Champions League again, a scenario that would further reduce United’s eventual cut.
Longoria outlines Greenwood’s importance
Speaking during a live-streamed press conference, Longoria provided clarity on Greenwood’s contractual situation and Marseille’s intentions. He confirmed that the club currently holds 60 per cent of the player’s economic rights, alongside full sporting control, with the possibility of increasing that share to 65 per cent through Champions League qualification.
Longoria emphasised the club’s satisfaction with Greenwood’s development, highlighting the collective effort behind his progress. While acknowledging the forward’s natural talent, he praised the work being done by De Zerbi and the coaching staff to refine Greenwood’s overall game.
The Marseille president also stressed that Greenwood’s evolution has not been limited to individual brilliance. According to Longoria, one of the most notable improvements has been his understanding of collective play and his willingness to contribute to the team’s overall structure, a shift that has made him even more valuable within the squad.
Marseille currently sits third in the Ligue 1 table after 16 matches, trailing leaders Lens by five points. Their strong league position keeps them firmly in the hunt for another Champions League berth, which would further strengthen their hand both competitively and financially.
Confidence in De Zerbi and long-term vision
Longoria also used the opportunity to reaffirm Marseille’s commitment to head coach Roberto De Zerbi, whose influence has been central to Greenwood’s revival. The president expressed hope that De Zerbi would remain at the club for many years, describing him as one of Europe’s elite coaches.
Rather than focusing on speculation about the manager’s future, Longoria explained that the club prefers stability during the competitive phase of the season. He noted positive signs in De Zerbi’s integration, including his growing comfort with the French language, while acknowledging that long-term alignment of ambition remains key.
For Marseille, the message is clear: Greenwood is viewed as a cornerstone of the project, not a short-term asset to be flipped for profit. For Manchester United, however, that stance could mean waiting longer — and receiving less — from a player whose value continues to soar.
As things stand, Greenwood’s future appears firmly rooted in southern France, with Marseille fully committed to building around one of Ligue 1’s most influential stars.