Mason Greenwood Reflects on Past Mistakes as He Thrives at Marseille

Nearly six months after the dismissal of charges against him, Mason Greenwood acknowledged his past mistakes as Manchester United confirmed he would not be reintegrated into the squad following an internal investigation regarding his off-pitch conduct.

In August 2023, shortly before joining Getafe on a season-long loan, Greenwood stated: “I want to start by saying I understand that people will judge me based on what they have seen and heard on social media, and I know people will think the worst. I was raised to understand that violence or abuse in any relationship is unacceptable. I did not commit the acts I was accused of, and I was cleared of all charges in February. However, I fully accept that I made mistakes in my relationship and take my share of responsibility for the situations that led to the social media post. I am learning to understand my responsibilities as a professional footballer and am focused on being a good father and partner.

The decision regarding my future has been reached collaboratively between Manchester United, my family, and me. The best course of action for everyone involved is for me to continue my career away from Old Trafford, where my presence would not distract the club. I am grateful for the support I received from the club since joining at the age of seven, and a part of me will always remain connected to United. I am immensely thankful to my family and loved ones for their support, and it is now my responsibility to repay the trust they have placed in me. I aim to become a better footballer, but more importantly, a good father and a better person, using my talent positively both on and off the pitch.”

United later sold Greenwood outright to Marseille in the summer of 2024, where he has since become a pivotal player, welcoming two children with his partner, Harriet Robson. The discourse surrounding the former United player has resurfaced following Marseille’s victory over Newcastle United in the Champions League.

Former Marseille star Samir Nasri shared his perspective on Greenwood’s public perception, highlighting the importance of forgiveness in relationships. He remarked on Canal+: “If she (Harriet Robson) has forgiven him, who are we to judge? That’s the point… If your wife has forgiven you, we can forgive you. If she hadn’t and he had been found guilty, she would have said it was normal.”

Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi has also offered his support for the 24-year-old forward, describing him as a “good person” who has paid a “heavy price” for his past. “I never delve into the players’ private lives,” De Zerbi stated. “But I can say he’s a good person. He has arrived in the right environment and has behaved well. It saddens me what happened to him because I know a very different person than the one portrayed in England.”

Following a prolific season at Marseille, Greenwood continues to impress, having scored 11 goals and provided four assists in 17 appearances this season. He aims to further contribute as Marseille, currently second in Ligue 1, prepares to host Toulouse on Saturday. While he was linked to several top European clubs earlier this year, his current focus remains on delivering strong performances for De Zerbi’s side, who are just two points behind leaders Paris Saint-Germain.