Angel Gomes has officially begun his tenure at Olympique de Marseille, having completed his free transfer from Lille OSC. The 24-year-old midfielder`s arrival marks a significant moment for the club, but it`s a particular reunion that has captured attention: his link-up with former Manchester United academy teammate, Mason Greenwood.
Both Gomes and Greenwood emerged from the prolific Manchester United youth system, a pathway many aspire to but few navigate to the professional level together. Gomes, a highly-rated prospect, made his senior debut for the Red Devils in 2017, with Greenwood following two years later. Their trajectories diverged when Gomes departed Old Trafford in 2020, seeking new opportunities which led him to Lille, where he developed into a key player. Greenwood`s career took a different, more turbulent turn, culminating in a loan spell at Getafe last season before his recent move to Marseille this summer. The south of France now serves as the unexpected common ground for these two players who once shared pitches in Manchester`s youth ranks.
Speaking at his introductory press conference, Gomes offered insight into their enduring connection. He described Greenwood as being “a bit like a little brother” to him, a relationship forged over a decade ago when they first met at Manchester United aged just eight. Gomes reflected on the rarity and beauty of their shared journey from childhood teammates to professional colleagues at the same club once more. His anticipation was clear: “I can`t wait to share these moments with him in Marseille,” he stated, underlining the personal significance of their reunion.
This reunion occurs as both players look to establish themselves in new surroundings, particularly for Greenwood, who is restarting his career following the highly publicised legal issues he faced, where charges were ultimately dropped in 2023. His move to Marseille represents a fresh start, and having a familiar face like Gomes by his side undoubtedly eases the transition.
Gomes` arrival also adds to a notable, if perhaps unintentional, English-speaking contingent developing at Marseille. While Greenwood has recently switched his international allegiance to Jamaica, the presence of players like Jonathan Rowe and CJ Egan-Riley alongside Gomes means there are now several voices from the British Isles in the Stade Vélodrome dressing room.
The narrative of Gomes and Greenwood`s careers, from promising academy hopefuls to reuniting in France, is a compelling subplot to Marseille`s summer activity. For Gomes, it`s a key move after his time at Lille; for Greenwood, it`s a crucial step in his career revival. Their shared history provides a unique bond that could prove beneficial both on and off the pitch as Olympique de Marseille prepares for the upcoming season. It`s a reminder that even in the often-impersonal world of elite football transfers, personal connections forged in childhood can unexpectedly lead players back together.
