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Mason Greenwood, the 23-year-old forward currently playing for Olympique de Marseille, has officially changed his international football allegiance from England to Jamaica. This decision follows a period of reflection and discussions with both football associations, culminating in the necessary paperwork being filed to facilitate the switch.
Greenwood, born in Bradford, West Yorkshire, England, has Jamaican heritage through his father. He progressed through Manchester United’s youth academy, making his senior debut in 2019. Internationally, Greenwood represented England at various youth levels and earned his senior cap in September 2020 during a UEFA Nations League match against Iceland. However, his international career faced challenges following off-field issues in January 2022, leading to his suspension from the England squad. Although legal charges were dropped in February 2023, Greenwood remained absent from national team selections.
In August 2024, Greenwood initiated the process to switch his international allegiance to Jamaica, a move permitted under FIFA regulations as he had played only one competitive match for England before turning 21. The Jamaican Football Federation (JFF) welcomed this development, with head coach Steve McClaren, formerly an assistant manager at Manchester United, expressing enthusiasm about Greenwood’s potential impact on the team. McClaren stated, “Mason is an exceptional talent whose versatility and goal-scoring ability will be a tremendous asset as we aim for World Cup qualification.”
After leaving Manchester United, Greenwood joined Olympique de Marseille in July 2024 on a five-year contract. He made an immediate impact, scoring twice and providing two assists on his debut against Brest. His impressive performances have continued, making him a key player for the Ligue 1 club.
Greenwood is expected to join the Jamaican national team for upcoming World Cup qualifiers. While Marseille has agreed to release him for official matches, they have declined to do so for friendly fixtures in March. Greenwood expressed his commitment, stating, “Representing Jamaica is a profound honor for me and my family. I am dedicated to contributing to the team’s success on the international stage.”
