Mason Greenwood slammed by manager after defeat

Manchester United supporters have been keeping a close eye on the progress of former academy products abroad, particularly those looking to resurrect careers after turbulent periods.

Overseas leagues continue to draw talent that once featured at Old Trafford, with mixed fortunes for ex-United players.

In Ligue 1, Marseille has faced a rocky last couple games, struggling to string consistent results together, and their fixtures have attracted increased scrutiny from fans and pundits alike.

Roberto De Zerbi’s side, tipped for a strong season, have been caught out in crucial moments, raising questions over squad depth and individual performances.

Attention has particularly turned to the club’s attacking options, with a few key forwards failing to hit the expected standards.

Mason Greenwood has now found himself on the receiving end of criticism following Marseille’s home defeat to Lille.

The former Manchester United academy product, who joined the French side last year shortly after legal charges were dropped, was singled out by Roberto De Zerbi, the ex-Brighton boss, for his lacklustre showing.

De Zerbi, who has generally praised Greenwood’s contributions, 11 goals and four assists in 19 appearances, did not hold back after the Lille loss, stating: “We played badly and we deserved to lose.

“We didn’t string three passes together. We lost every second ball. Even with dribbling, we couldn’t beat anyone.

“Defensively, we were never as aggressive as we usually are.

“We were passive from the first minute to the last.

“One shot on target for a player like Greenwood isn’t enough for him. Shooting so infrequently isn’t sufficient.”

This level of criticism contrasts sharply with Greenwood’s earlier comments about his coach, where he expressed gratitude for De Zerbi’s role in helping him rebuild his career.

The 24-year-old said: “I’m in a really good place thanks to the coach and my teammates.”

Off the pitch, Greenwood has also secured Jamaican citizenship, receiving a passport in August, although he has yet to feature for the Caribbean nation’s national team.

While his focus remains on Marseille and reviving his career in France, performances like the one against Lille show there is still work to be done to consistently meet expectations.

For supporters watching a former Red navigating a career rebuild, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether Greenwood can maintain momentum or if further criticism will follow.