Adrien Rabiot, a prominent leader for Olympique de Marseille as they prepare for a return to Champions League football in the 2025-26 season, recently participated in an extensive interview with The Athletic. During the discussion, he specifically commented on Mason Greenwood`s initial season playing in France.
“Mason is an incredible player,” Rabiot remarked when speaking about the forward formerly of Manchester United. He added, “If he hadn’t had all of his problems, I think he’d have an image like [Jude] Bellingham. Mason would be the star.”
The former Juventus midfielder further elaborated on Greenwood`s capabilities, stating, “Because he’s an exceptional player. He can score with his right foot and his left foot, he has an exceptional shot, he can dribble.” Rabiot concluded, “We’re very lucky to have him. When he’s really focused, he does really great things.”
Greenwood joined Marseille from Manchester United last summer in a transfer reportedly valued up to €31.6m. His move followed charges in 2022, including attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault. However, these charges were discontinued in 2023 after key witness evidence and testimony were withdrawn, enabling his transfer to the Provence region.
The English player concluded the season having scored 21 goals. This achievement set a new record for the highest number of goals scored by a Marseille player in their debut season in the 21st century, surpassing the previous benchmarks set by Bafetimbi Gomis (20) and Didier Drogba (19). According to Opta statistics, his goals were directly responsible for earning an additional 16 points for the club this season, a higher contribution than any other player in Ligue 1.
