Mason Greenwood's eye-catching Champions League display for Marseille — and the heated reaction to commentators' praise — strengthens his betting appeal: punters may favour Greenwood in anytime-goalscorer markets and back Marseille for an attacking result in upcoming fixtures, while bookmakers could shorten odds on Marseille scoring when Greenwood starts.
Mason Greenwood’s Marseille Return Sparks Fresh Debate
Mason Greenwood started against Liverpool in the Champions League, his first appearance versus a Premier League club since leaving Manchester United. Sold to Marseille in summer 2024 for around £26.6m after a loan at Getafe, Greenwood has returned to top-level European competition despite the controversy that ended his Old Trafford career.
Legal Background and Club Journey
Greenwood was arrested in January 2022 and later charged with serious offences; those charges were dropped after key witnesses withdrew. He did not return to the United first team, spent time on loan at Getafe, then completed a permanent move to Marseille. He remains absent from the England squad.
Pundit Praise Provokes Fan Backlash
Broadcaster commentary lavishly praising Greenwood during the Marseille-Liverpool tie provoked a strong reaction on social media. Supporters claimed commentators were overly complimentary and suggested such treatment felt inappropriate given the player’s past. Several viewers described the on-air tone as uncomfortable and questioned why the ex-England academy forward is playing in France rather than being reintegrated at home.
Manager Support and On-Field Form
Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi has publicly defended Greenwood, calling him “a good guy” and saying the player paid a “heavy price” for what happened. This season Greenwood has been highly productive for his club, featuring 26 times across competitions with 20 goals and six assists before the Liverpool fixture.
International Future and Public Campaigns
Despite a prior England cap in 2020, Greenwood has been excluded from national selection. Social media campaigns have pushed for his reinstatement, while Jamaica’s FA reportedly made approaches for a potential allegiance switch. The debate over his international future remains divisive among fans and pundits.
Betting Implications and Market Impact
Greenwood’s strong scoring record for Marseille makes him an attractive option in short-term markets: punters may back him in anytime-goalscorer and shot-on-target markets when he starts, and consider Marseille for goalscorer or double-chance bets in fixtures where Greenwood features.
Bookmakers are likely to shorten odds on Marseille scoring in matches he starts and may adjust individual markets for Greenwood. Bettors should factor in possible selection changes and off-field controversy when considering longer-term or squad-based wagers.
Ex-Premier League Star Predicts Salah's Replacement at Liverpool
Ally McCoist has been called out for his commentary on former Manchester United man Mason Greenwood during Marseille's clash with Liverpool.
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