Marseille manager hails Greenwood's Ballon d'Or prospects

Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi stated on Friday that he sees English forward Mason Greenwood, who has netted 13 goals already this season, possessing "Ballon d'Or prospects".

"Mason possesses immense talent. There are not many players of his quality across Europe. In my view, he possesses the potential to win the Ballon d'Or," De Zerbi remarked during a news conference ahead of his side's Ligue 1 clash with Monaco in two days.

"It depends on him whether he chooses to give his all to vie for the Ballon d'Or. However, given his innate abilities, that potential exists."

After moving to Marseille in the summer, Greenwood has managed 35 goals and nine assists across 56 outings.

The 24 year old serves as Marseille's primary offensive threat, though he occasionally faces criticism over insufficient defensive contributions.

"I always demand improvement, and I would prefer greater consistency from him," De Zerbi went on.

"Yet I am not expecting him to sprint back 100 metres. As a former number 10 myself, rather than a full back, I get it.

"Still, he could apply greater intensity in pressing. Under duress, he should hold onto the ball more effectively, steer clear of excessive gambles, and help the team progress," the Italian manager noted.

"That said, witnessing his strike against Union Saint-Gilloise, that Drogba-esque dribble and the finish that flew past a keeper standing over two metres tall, left me stunned."

"I trust that years from now, he will recall me and think, 'That manager pushed me relentlessly each day, yet I grew stronger'."

Greenwood joined Marseille amid controversy in July 2024, following a loan spell at Getafe from Manchester United in the prior season.

Manchester United had sidelined him in January 2022 amid claims of attempted rape and assault, though authorities dismissed the case in February 2023.

Marseille keeper Geronimo Rulli called Greenwood "among the finest" talents he has come across in his professional life.

"I have played alongside several for Argentina. Messi operates on a different level, but Mason can do it all. He uses both feet, boasts speed and sharp awareness," he commented.