Thomas Tuchel’s Stance on Mason Greenwood
Thomas Tuchel, the head coach of the England national football team, has stated that Mason Greenwood is not in his plans moving forward. The 23-year-old forward, who had his career at Manchester United thrust into controversy after being suspended in January 2022 due to allegations involving a young woman, has effectively been sidelined since then. Despite charges that included attempted rape and assault, the Crown Prosecution Service decided to drop the case in February 2023.
Greenwood’s Current Situation
Currently, Greenwood is navigating a complex situation regarding his international football future. After spending the 2023-24 season on loan at Getafe, he made a permanent switch to Marseille. There, he began the transition to potentially represent Jamaica, having obtained a Jamaican passport. However, he has yet to finalize the forms required to officially declare his allegiance, leading to frustration on the part of Jamaica’s head coach, Steve McClaren, who hoped to include Greenwood in the upcoming World Cup qualifying matches against Bermuda and Trinidad and Tobago.
“I haven’t had any communication with him or his representatives,” Tuchel commented, emphasizing that Greenwood has been off his radar as he attempts to establish himself with the Jamaican national team. “From what I understood, he is focusing on playing for Jamaica, so we’ve left it at that. He is not under consideration for selection right now.”
McClaren’s Disappointment
McClaren expressed disappointment regarding Greenwood’s hesitations, noting that despite acquiring his passport, the player prefers to concentrate on club football instead of committing to any national team endeavours at this time.
“It’s a bit disappointing because we believed he would join us for these camps, but it’s important we respect his decision,” McClaren remarked, expressing hope for future contact.
Greenwood’s International Career
Greenwood’s last appearance for England came in September 2020 when he debuted in a Nations League match against Iceland. His early promise was marred shortly after, as he and teammate Phil Foden were sent home for breaching COVID-19 protocol by inviting women to their hotel. Although he was recalled for England’s provisional Euro 2020 squad in May 2021, he withdrew due to an injury. As he looks to reinvigorate his career, Greenwood scored 21 goals for Marseille in Ligue 1 last season and has netted once this current campaign.
Conclusion
This situation underscores the complexities facing players associated with previous allegations and the differing aspirations that can complicate their international careers.
