In an extensive interview with L’Équipe, Roberto De Zerbi, the new manager of Olympique de Marseille, discussed the contentious transfer of Mason Greenwood from Manchester United. The signing stirred significant backlash within the French city, prompting reactions from various quarters.
The local mayor and organizations focused on sexual and domestic violence urged the club to reconsider the acquisition. Additionally, fans launched a social media campaign to dissuade the forward from joining. Greenwood, who had not appeared for Manchester United since being charged in 2022 with attempted rape, controlling and coercive behavior, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm, had spent the previous season on loan at Getafe. Although the Crown Prosecution Service dropped the charges, Greenwood has denied all allegations.
De Zerbi responds to public criticism
De Zerbi was questioned by L’Équipe about his earlier comments regarding Greenwood, made during his introductory press conference as Marseille’s manager. He had stated, “I don’t know [Greenwood’s] background. No matter the player, once they sign here, they become like my children. I protect them through thick and thin. Maybe, in private I’ll pull their ears, but in public, I’ll defend them like my sons.”
In response, De Zerbi clarified that his remarks should not be interpreted as a personal defense of Greenwood. He explained, “I didn’t defend him. I said that when a player becomes my player, I’m the first to pin him to the wall if he makes a mistake. But with regard to the outside world, I’ll always defend him as I would defend my son.” The manager further emphasized that he relied on the due diligence performed by the club’s president, Pablo Longoria, who had thoroughly assessed Greenwood’s background before the decision was made.
Insight into the club’s recruitment strategy
L’Équipe also inquired about Marseille’s approach to recruiting new players. De Zerbi revealed what the club prioritizes when seeking new signings. He noted, “What’s in his blood: Character, willpower. Elye Wahi, for example, wanted to come at all costs and that’s what he told me straight away on the phone. Mason Greenwood was the first player I called.”
De Zerbi shared that he spoke with Greenwood’s father to discuss the expectations associated with joining Marseille. He conveyed the club’s demanding nature, saying, “OM is OM.” Greenwood’s father responded by recalling the club’s illustrious history, including their participation in European Cup finals. De Zerbi added that if a player showed hesitancy about joining Marseille, the club would swiftly move on to other options.
